Description
These Cranberry Cheesecake Bars have a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, and a bright cranberry topping. They’re an easy make-ahead holiday dessert that’s perfect for sharing at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce, homemade or canned
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make removal easier.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and spread it into an even layer.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and firm.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake from the pan. Slice into 16 bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- Bring the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to help create a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Chill the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing so the cheesecake has time to set.
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for the best texture and a vibrant cranberry topping.
- Don’t skip lining the pan with parchment paper. The overhang makes it much easier to lift out the chilled bars.
- These bars are ideal for making ahead. Keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American