Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars – A Decadent Dessert Worth Every Bite
If there were ever a dessert that perfectly combined indulgence and elegance, Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars would be it. This recipe is the ultimate fusion of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and the tart sweetness of cherries — a trio that never fails to impress. Whether you’re baking for a dinner party, Valentine’s Day, or simply craving something extraordinary on a quiet weekend, these cheesecake bars deliver big flavor in every bite.
Cheesecake has long been a favorite among dessert lovers, but let’s face it — making a full-sized cheesecake can be a bit intimidating. That’s where cheesecake bars come in. They’re easier to prepare, bake faster, and serve up beautifully without the fuss of springform pans or water baths. And when you add chocolate and cherries into the mix? You get an irresistible treat that feels like a gourmet bakery creation but comes together in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
- Rich yet balanced flavor: The deep cocoa base perfectly complements the tangy cheesecake and bright cherry topping.
- Easy to make: With a straightforward crust, creamy filling, and luscious topping, this dessert is approachable even for beginner bakers.
- Perfect for any occasion: Serve them at holiday gatherings, summer picnics, or as a romantic dessert for two.
- Beautiful presentation: Those glossy cherries on top make every slice look picture-perfect!
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cherry Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust: Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the eggs and flavor: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add sour cream, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cheesecake silky.
- Pour over crust: Spread the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust using a spatula to smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly puffed. The center may jiggle slightly, which is fine.
- Cool completely: Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Then refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.
- Add the cherry topping: Once chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Optional chocolate drizzle: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second bursts until smooth, then drizzle over the top for a gourmet finish.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut clean bars. Wipe the knife between slices for the neatest presentation.
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, sour cream, cocoa powder, and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Pour filling over crust and smooth top. Bake 30–35 minutes until set.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours.
- Top with cherry pie filling and optional melted chocolate drizzle before slicing.
Notes
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake Bars
- Room temperature ingredients are key. Cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream blend more smoothly when they’re not cold.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause cracks.
- Chill thoroughly. Cheesecake texture improves dramatically after a good chill. The flavors also become more pronounced.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal. This small step saves time and ensures perfect, clean-edged bars.
Variations You’ll Love
- Black Forest Bars: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache before topping with cherries for a richer, more decadent version.
- Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a delightful twist that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust without changing the taste.
- Mini Cheesecake Cups: Prepare the same recipe in muffin liners for perfectly portioned treats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars chilled, straight from the refrigerator. They pair beautifully with:
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- A drizzle of dark chocolate sauce.
- A dusting of powdered sugar for extra elegance.
For special occasions, add chocolate curls or fresh cherries on top before serving — it adds both flair and freshness.
Storing & Freezing Tips
- To store: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- To freeze: Freeze the bars (without the cherry topping) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and top with cherries before serving.
The Sweet History of Cherries and Chocolate
Chocolate and cherries have a timeless partnership. The combination dates back centuries to European confectioners who discovered that the bitterness of dark chocolate was perfectly balanced by the tart sweetness of cherries. In the United States, this duo became iconic through desserts like Black Forest cake and cherry cordials. These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars take that same beloved flavor harmony and transform it into an easy, elegant handheld dessert.
Why This Recipe Works
It’s all about the balance. The chocolate crust adds a pleasant crunch and richness, while the cheesecake layer provides a creamy contrast. The cherry topping introduces a burst of fruity brightness that keeps each bite from feeling too heavy. The textures — crumbly, creamy, and silky — make it impossible to stop at just one bar.
Plus, it’s adaptable! You can tweak the flavors to match the season: use raspberries instead of cherries in summer or swap the chocolate base for a gingersnap crust during the holidays.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are proof that great desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and some simple techniques, you can create a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Each bite delivers that perfect trifecta: chocolate, creaminess, and cherries — all working in delicious harmony.
So the next time you’re craving something rich, beautiful, and guaranteed to impress, skip the bakery line. Whip up a pan of these cheesecake bars and watch them disappear before your eyes.
