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 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup cherries, halved; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries with these decadent cheesecake bars.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:54:29.958Z

These chocolate cherry cheesecake bars are a perfect blend of flavors that will impress your friends and family. With a creamy texture and a sweet cherry topping, they are great for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh cherry sweetness
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The rich, velvety chocolate base pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart cherries, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast that is sure to please any palate, making these bars perfect for any occasion.

The use of high-quality chocolate and fresh cherries elevates this dessert to new heights. The chocolate not only adds depth but also complements the natural sweetness of the cherries, making it a well-rounded treat. This balance of flavors ensures that your dessert is not overly sweet, allowing the ingredients to shine through.

Creamy and Decadent Texture

One of the standout features of these cheesecake bars is their creamy texture. The combination of softened cream cheese and eggs creates a luscious filling that melts in your mouth. This rich and smooth consistency makes the bars incredibly satisfying, providing a delightful contrast to the crunchy chocolate crust.

The addition of chocolate chips adds an extra layer of texture and flavor, ensuring that each bite is a delightful experience. Whether you enjoy them chilled or at room temperature, the creamy filling and textured crust make these bars a delightful treat that you won't soon forget.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply want to treat yourself, these bars are an excellent choice. Their beautiful presentation and delicious flavor will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Additionally, these bars are easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to prepare them for busy events or festive celebrations. Just whip up a batch, chill them in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to serve at a moment's notice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious chocolate cherry cheesecake bars:

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
1/2 cup chocolate chips

For the topping:

1 cup cherries, halved
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Make sure to prepare these ingredients ahead of time for a smooth baking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chocolate cherry cheesecake bars:

Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, mix together the chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Make the filling

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

Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

Bake the bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Prepare the topping

In a small saucepan, combine the halved cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries are soft and syrupy. Let cool before topping the cheesecake bars.

Serve

Once chilled, top the cheesecake bars with the cherry mixture and serve. Enjoy your delicious chocolate cherry cheesecake bars!

Ensure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen bars, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This way, you can savor the delightful combination of chocolate and cherries whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars according to your taste preferences. For instance, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, try adding a hint of almond extract to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

If you're a fan of nuts, consider incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into the crust for added crunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to create a unique dessert that suits your cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative.