Discover the perfect blend of rich chocolate, tangy cherries, and creamy cheesecake in these irresistible dessert bars. Experience pure indulgence today!
Decadent Indulgence: Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Introduction
Welcome to a divine dessert experience that promises every bite is a sumptuous journey through layers of rich chocolate, luscious cherries, and creamy cheesecake. Our "Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars" are the ultimate treat for anyone who adores the combination of fruit and chocolate with the luxurious texture of cheesecake. Perfect for special occasions or simply to satiate a sweet craving, these bars are as beautiful to present as they are delightful to devour. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow, gourmet recipe that elevates dessert to an art form.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry preserves or pie filling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and beat until well incorporated.
- Mix in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from heat just before it starts to boil.
- Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
- Once the cheesecake is set, spread the cherry preserves or pie filling evenly over the top.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the cherry layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Return the assembled bars to the refrigerator to set for another hour.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.
Conclusion
Your decadent journey into dessert bliss is now complete with these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars. The harmony of flavors and textures—from the crispy crust to the creamy cheesecake and the indulgent layers of cherries and chocolate—makes this dish unforgettable. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dessert or a part of a lavish dinner party spread, these bars are bound to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy each bite of this dessert masterpiece and relish the compliments sure to follow!