Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines sweetness with a hint of tartness, making them perfect for any occasion. This recipe features a rich cheesecake layer, bursting with tart cherry flavor, all nestled between layers of crumbly goodness. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars will surely impress your guests with their vibrant taste and appealing texture.
Why You’ll Love This Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars
These bars offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that make them irresistible.
- Layered Delight: Enjoy four distinct layers—cookie base, creamy cheesecake, tart cherries, and crispy crumble.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as an everyday dessert!
- Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure even novice bakers can create this delicious treat.
- Make Ahead: These bars store well, making them ideal for meal prep or last-minute company.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet and tart flavors is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 13×9 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Allow you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar or mixing batter.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping every bit of mixture from the bowl.
Ingredients
A four-layer delight! Shortbread-like cookie bottom layer, topped with a creamy cheesecake layer, a tart cherry layer, and then a crispy almond-crumb layer!
This recipe makes a 13×9 pan. I cut mine into 24 bars, but you could cut them larger if you like! These stay fresh covered in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, but keep in the fridge if you still have them longer.
For the Cherry Layer
- 4 c (about 1 1/4 lb, or .6kg) Tart Cherries, pitted, or 20 oz. frozen
- 3/4 c (148g) Granulated Sugar
- 2 t (10ml) Lemon Juice
- 4 T (32g) Cornstarch or Cornflour
- 1/4 tsp (3ml) Almond Extract
- Large pinch Kosher salt
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 12 oz (339g) Cream Cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 c (50g) Confectioners’ Sugar
- 1 Large Egg
For the Crust and Crumble Topping
- 1.5 c (180g) All-Purpose Flour
- 1.5 c (180g) Whole Wheat Pastry Flour
- 1 c (198g) Granulated Sugar
- 1 tsp (4g) Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 c (227g) Unsalted Butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 Large Egg, whisked slightly chilled
- 1/2 c (60g) Sliced Almonds
How to Make Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 13×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine the tart cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, almond extract, and salt.
2. Stir gently until mixed well.
3. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl:
1. Beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar until well combined.
3. Add in one egg and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Crust and Topping Mixture
In another mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, whole wheat pastry flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly.
3. Reserve half of this mixture for topping.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
In your prepared pan:
1. Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom evenly.
2. Pour cheesecake filling over this layer.
3. Spread cooled cherry filling on top of cheesecake.
4. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over cherries followed by sliced almonds.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy your Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars!
How to Serve Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Serving Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be a delightful experience. These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.
For a Sweet Breakfast
- Coffee Pairing: Enjoy your crumb bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful morning treat.
- Yogurt Topping: Crumble some bars over Greek yogurt for added texture and sweetness.
As a Dessert Option
- Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy cheesecake flavor.
- Ice Cream Scoop: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
At Parties or Gatherings
- Dessert Platter: Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing on a dessert platter.
- Fruit Garnish: Garnish with fresh tart cherries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
As an Afternoon Snack
- Tea Time Treat: Pair these bars with your favorite herbal tea for a relaxing afternoon snack.
- Nut Mix Side: Serve alongside a small bowl of mixed nuts for added crunch and protein.
How to Perfect Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Perfecting your Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars is all about mastering the layers and flavors. Here are some tips to make your baking easier and more successful.
- Bold Ingredients: Use fresh tart cherries whenever possible for the best flavor. They lend a vibrant taste that frozen varieties may lack.
- Proper Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
- Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the fridge before cutting. This helps maintain clean edges and prevents crumbling.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumb mixture for an extra flavor dimension.
- Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, so check them when they start to turn golden brown.
Best Side Dishes for Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and melon adds freshness that complements the bars’ richness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate enhances sweetness and adds elegance to your plate.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially tangy varieties, balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly.
- Nutty Granola: Serve with crunchy granola on top or as a side for added texture and nutrition.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: This non-dairy option provides a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with cherry flavors.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea will harmonize well with the tartness of the cherries while offering comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using frozen cherries without thawing – Frozen tart cherries should be thawed and drained before use to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- Not room-temperature cream cheese – Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your cheesecake layer. Ensure it is at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
- Skipping the chilling time – Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This step helps achieve clean cuts and better texture.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cheesecake layer. Mix just until combined to keep it light and creamy.
- Ignoring measurements – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale for precise quantities, especially with flour.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag to avoid freezer burn.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop – Warm bars in a non-stick pan over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of tart cherries?
You can substitute tart cherries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. However, adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit used.
How do I make these Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flours. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. This saves time on baking day!
What is the best way to cut these crumb bars?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Wipe the knife between cuts to maintain neat edges.
How long do these Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars last at room temperature?
These bars can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors with creamy textures. They are perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized with different fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious dessert bars!
Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: About 24 servings 1x
Description
Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, offering a delightful dessert experience for any occasion. With a buttery cookie crust, a creamy cheesecake layer infused with tart cherries, and a crunchy almond crumble on top, these bars are sure to impress your guests. They are simple to make, making them an excellent choice for novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Easy to prepare ahead of time, they can be served as an elegant dessert or enjoyed as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 4 cups tart cherries (pitted or frozen)
- 12 oz cream cheese
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- Sugar (granulated and confectioners')
- Eggs
- Almond extract
- Sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, combine tart cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, almond extract, and salt; cook until thickened.
- Beat cream cheese with confectioners' sugar until smooth; add egg and mix well.
- In another bowl, mix flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt; cut in butter to form crumbs.
- Press half of the crumb mixture into the pan; layer with cheesecake filling, cherry mixture, and top with remaining crumbs and sliced almonds.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown; cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (55g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
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