Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars—rich, creamy cheesecake with a sweet cherry swirl, all on a buttery graham crust. These are perfect for parties, desserts, or anytime you want a treat! 🍒🧀

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🍒 Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14–16 crackers)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• Pinch of salt

Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional but makes it extra creamy)

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (helps prevent cracks)

Cherry Swirl

• 1 cup cherry pie filling (or cherry preserves)

• 1–2 tbsp cornstarch (if using fresh cherries)

• 1 tbsp water (if using cornstarch)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

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✅ Step-by-Step Directions

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy lifting.

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Step 2: Make the Crust

1. Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until well combined.

2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

3. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

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Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add sugar and beat until creamy.

3. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each.

4. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and flour until smooth and lump-free.

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Step 4: Make the Cherry Swirl

Option A: Using Cherry Pie Filling

• Just use 1 cup as-is.

Option B: Using Fresh/Frozen Cherries

1. Cook cherries with sugar until soft.

2. Mix cornstarch and water, then stir into cherries.

3. Cook until thickened, then cool.

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Step 5: Assemble

1. Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

2. Drop spoonfuls of cherry filling over the cheesecake layer.

3. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cherries into the cheesecake (don’t over-mix).

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Step 6: Bake

1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until edges are set but center still slightly jiggly.

2. Turn off oven and crack the door open. Let bars cool inside for 1 hour (this prevents cracking).

3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

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Step 7: Slice & Serve

1. Lift bars out using parchment overhang.

2. Slice into squares.

3. Optional: top with extra cherry pie filling or whipped cream.

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🍒 Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

• Room temperature cream cheese prevents lumps.

• Don’t overbake—the center should still wobble slightly.

• Chill overnight for the best texture.

• Use a hot knife (run under hot water and dry) for clean slices.