Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Few desserts feel as festive and comforting as Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake center, a glossy sweet-tart cherry layer, and a crumbly brown sugar streusel on top, these bars capture the magic of the holidays in every bite.

They’re perfect for Christmas dessert tables, holiday potlucks, or those cozy winter evenings when you want something special but still easy to serve. Slice them up, set them out, and watch them disappear—these bars are always a showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday-perfect dessert that looks festive and tastes incredible
• Make-ahead friendly, ideal for busy Christmas schedules
• Creamy, fruity, and buttery with the perfect balance of textures
• Easy to slice and serve, no plating stress
• Freezer-friendly, so you can prep early and relax later

Ingredients

Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs – Create a sturdy, buttery base with classic flavor
• Brown sugar – Adds warmth and depth to the crust
• Melted butter – Binds everything together and adds richness

Cheesecake Layer

• Cream cheese (softened) – The heart of the recipe, rich and creamy
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering it
• Eggs – Help set the cheesecake into a smooth, sliceable layer
• Lemon juice – Brightens and balances the richness
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and classic cheesecake aroma

Cherry Layer

• Fresh or frozen cherries – Juicy, festive, and naturally vibrant
• Granulated sugar – Enhances the cherries’ sweetness
• Cornstarch – Thickens the cherry filling into a glossy topping
• Water – Helps dissolve the cornstarch evenly
• Lemon juice – Adds a subtle tart contrast
• Almond extract (optional) – Deepens the cherry flavor beautifully

Streusel Topping

• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the crumb topping
• Brown sugar – Adds caramel-like sweetness
• Cold butter – Creates those irresistible buttery crumbs

How to Make Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Make the Crust

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the texture looks like damp sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Cherry Layer

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the cherries release their juices.
Mix the cornstarch with water, stir it into the cherries, and cook another 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy. Remove from heat, stir in almond extract if using, and let cool.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon juice and vanilla.
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked crust.

Assemble the Layers

Spoon the cooled cherry filling evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading gently so the layers stay distinct.

Add the Streusel

Combine flour and brown sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the cherry layer.

Bake and Chill

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center still has a slight jiggle.
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for clean, bakery-style slices.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps
• Let the cherry filling cool slightly before layering to keep the cheesecake smooth
• Don’t overbake—the center should jiggle slightly for a creamy texture
• Chill thoroughly before slicing for sharp, professional-looking bars

Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Pastry cutter or fork (for streusel)

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer
• Cranberry Cherry Holiday Bars: Replace half the cherries with fresh cranberries
• Nutty Streusel Bars: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the streusel topping
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers and flour

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence
• Pair with hot coffee, chai, or cocoa for cozy holiday vibes
• Cut into small squares for dessert platters and cookie exchanges

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes! Frozen cherries work perfectly. No need to thaw—just simmer a little longer.

How long do these bars last?
They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely. Slice them first, then freeze individually for up to 2 months.

Do I have to use almond extract?
No, it’s optional, but it enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.

Why is chilling so important?
Chilling allows the cheesecake to fully set, giving you clean slices and the best texture.

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Final Thoughts

These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are everything a holiday dessert should be—festive, creamy, fruity, and irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating your family to something special, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and sweet memories to your table.