These cherry cheesecake bars are the perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion! Creamy cheesecake sits atop a homemade graham cracker crust, and is finished off with a generous helping of cherries.
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line an 8"x8" pan with foil and coat with cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of sugar and melted butter.
Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 10 minutes.
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling.
Place the cream cheese in the bowl of a mixer and beat until smooth and fluffy.
Add the sugar, heavy cream and vanilla extract and beat until combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Pour the mixture over the crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 38-40 minutes or until set and edges are light brown.
Cool the pan to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
Cut the cheesecake into 9 or 12 squares, depending on your preference.
Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling over each bar.
Serve.
Notes
Alyssa Also Recommends: Want to make this even easier? Here are a few products that I LOVE:•KitchenAid Stand Mixer •Finedine Mixing Bowls •Utopia Kitchen Cooking Knives