Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars! Featuring a rich cocoa crumble crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and bursts of tart cherries, this treat is decadent, fruity, and irresistibly delicious. Topped with a chocolate drizzle, these bars are perfect for any occasion—from elegant dinner parties to casual gatherings.
Why You Will Love Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
These bars are the perfect fusion of flavors and textures:
- Triple layers of delight: A chocolate crumble crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and a crumbly chocolate topping.
- Bursting with cherries: Sweet and tart cherries add a refreshing fruity contrast.
- Make-ahead friendly: These bars can be prepped in advance and stored for busy schedules.
Ingredient Notes for Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
For the Chocolate Crumble Mixture:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base and topping of the bars.
- ⅔ cup cocoa powder: Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- ¾ cup brown sugar: Sweetens the crumble while keeping it soft and moist.
- 1½ cups cold butter: The key to a tender, crumbly crust.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups (1 pound) cream cheese: Ensures the filling is smooth and creamy. Use full-fat for the best texture.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake to perfection.
- 2 tbsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the cream cheese flavor.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Provides a subtle tang that complements the cherries.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the filling and gives it structure.
- 1⅓ cups fresh or frozen cherries: Quartered for easy distribution and bursts of fruity flavor.
For the Optional Chocolate Drizzle:
- ½ cup chocolate chips: Melts into a glossy topping for extra indulgence.
- 2 tbsp whipping cream: Helps the drizzle maintain a smooth, pourable consistency.
Pro Tip: If using frozen cherries, thaw and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan
- Parchment paper (optional for lining)
- Food processor or pastry cutter
- Mixing bowls and hand or stand mixer
- Offset spatula (for spreading cheesecake layer)
- Small saucepan (for drizzle)
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a food processor, blend the flour, cocoa, brown sugar, and cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Alternatively, use a pastry knife or two butter knives to cut the butter into the dry ingredients.
Reserve 1 cup of the crumble mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes, then let the crust cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, white sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Scatter the quartered cherries across the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the top.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For clean cuts, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares or rectangles.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)
In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and whipping cream together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars for an extra layer of decadence.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these bars chilled for the best texture. Pair with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Berry swap: Replace cherries with raspberries or blackberries for a different fruity twist.
- Nutty topping: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the reserved crumble mixture for extra crunch.
- White chocolate: Use white chocolate chips in the drizzle for a creamy, sweet contrast.
Helpful Notes
- Chill before slicing: Refrigerating the bars makes it easier to cut clean, neat pieces.
- Don’t overmix the cheesecake filling: Overbeating the eggs can introduce too much air, causing cracks during baking.
- Room-temperature cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly, avoiding lumps in the filling.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Mary Berry: “Always line your baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal of delicate desserts.”
- Ina Garten: “Let the cream cheese come to room temperature for the creamiest texture in cheesecakes.”
- Christina Tosi: “Add a pinch of sea salt to chocolate drizzle for a balanced sweetness.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use canned cherries?
A: Yes, but drain them thoroughly to prevent the bars from becoming soggy.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q: Do I need to use fresh cream for the chocolate drizzle?
A: Heavy cream creates the smoothest drizzle, but you can substitute with whole milk in a pinch.
Q: Why is my crust crumbly?
A: Ensure the butter is thoroughly incorporated into the dry ingredients, and press the mixture firmly into the pan.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bars taste even better after chilling overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
In conclusion, these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that’s as easy to make as they are to enjoy. With their rich chocolate layers, creamy filling, and bursts of cherry goodness, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Happy baking!
