Delight your taste buds with the harmonious blend of cherries and almonds encapsulated in a luscious cheesecake bar. This dessert seamlessly marries a crunchy graham cracker crust with a velvety almond-infused cheesecake filling, topped with succulent cherries and a delicate almond glaze. Perfect for gatherings or a personal treat, these bars promise to be a showstopper.
Ingredients Overview:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbsi am baker+1food.com+1
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softenedButternut Bakery
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extractGarnish with Lemon+2i am baker+2Pies and Tacos+2
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
For the Almond Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extractGarnish with Lemon+3Pies and Tacos+3i am baker+3
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to facilitate easy removal.
- Craft the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.i am baker
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the almond and vanilla extracts until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Evenly distribute the halved cherries over the cheesecake layer. Gently press them into the batter.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Chill:
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
- Prepare the Almond Glaze (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the almond glaze over the chilled cheesecake bars.Pies and Tacos
- Garnish with sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Crust Variations: For a different twist, consider using crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits in place of graham crackers.
- Cherry Options: While fresh cherries provide a vibrant flavor, canned cherry pie filling can be used as a convenient alternative.
- Almond Essence: The almond extract enhances the nutty flavor, complementing the cherries. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
- Clean Slicing: For neat slices, use a sharp knife wiped clean after each cut.Butternut Bakery
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 280
- Carbohydrates: 32gallrecipes.com
- Protein: 4gBettyCrocker.com
- Fat: 16gi am baker+2Butternut Bakery+2Garnish with Lemon+2
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 180mgBettyCrocker.com+1Pies and Tacos+1
- Sugar: 24g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Storage Recommendations:
- Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion:
These Creamy Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible dessert choice. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy the process of creating this delectable treat and the joy it brings to those who taste it.
