Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup cherry pie filling; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of chocolate cherry cheesecake bars, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T18:14:30.499Z

These chocolate cherry cheesecake bars combine the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries, creating a delightful dessert that is sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor balanced with tart cherries
Creamy cheesecake texture that everyone will adore
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that fits perfectly into any event or gathering. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday dinner, or simply craving something sweet, these bars will impress everyone at the table. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts.

These bars are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a decadent dessert ready in no time. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Flavorful Combination

The marriage of chocolate and cherries in this recipe is nothing short of magical. The sweet and creamy cheesecake filling complements the tartness of the cherry pie filling, creating a balanced dessert experience. Every bite offers a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. It's this unique blend that makes these cheesecake bars stand out from other desserts.

Moreover, the chocolate cookie crust adds another layer of taste and texture, enhancing the overall experience. The crunchiness of the crust contrasts beautifully with the smooth cheesecake and the luscious chocolate ganache, ensuring that each bite is a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavors by substituting the cherry pie filling with your favorite fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries. You can also swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the ganache for dark or milk chocolate, depending on your personal preference.

Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache before chilling can introduce a sophisticated flavor contrast that enhances the sweetness of the chocolate. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own, ensuring it reflects your unique taste.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup sugar

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup cherry pie filling

For the chocolate ganache

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

Note: You can use store-bought cherry pie filling or make your own for a fresher taste.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Make the cheesecake filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Add cherries

Gently fold in the cherry pie filling into the cheesecake mixture, trying not to break the cherries.

Bake the bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes. Let cool completely.

Prepare the ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.

Top the cheesecake

Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecake bars, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Enjoy your delicious chocolate cherry cheesecake bars!

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, make sure they are well covered to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the bars for up to three months.

To freeze, cut the bars into individual pieces and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll taste just as good as when you first made them.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars, presentation can elevate the experience. Consider garnishing each piece with fresh cherries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a delightful contrast to the rich cheesecake. A cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine can complement the flavors beautifully, making for a perfect end to any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you may need to add some sugar to balance the tartness.

→ How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.