Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the alcohol-free vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Step 4: Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the baking pan and spread it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling on top of the cheesecake layer and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and let cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For optimal freshness, store your Black Forest Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to five days. If you prefer to enjoy them warm, simply place the bars in a microwave-safe dish and heat them for about 15-20 seconds, just until slightly warmed through. These cheesecake bars are delightful when served with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top for added indulgence. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry flavored syrup or almond paste to the cheesecake batter for an extra layer of richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 18g