Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a decadent dessert that brings together the best of chocolate, cream cheese, and fruity cherry goodness, this Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. These bars offer the perfect marriage of a fudgy brownie base, a velvety cheesecake middle, and a luscious cherry topping, creating layers of flavor and texture that feel truly special yet are surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these irresistible bars, you’ll only need a handful of basic yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role, whether it’s giving moisture, richness, sweetness, or that beautiful balance of tart and sweet cherries paired with deep chocolate flavors.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moistness to the brownie layer.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup + 1/4 cup): Sweetens both the brownie and cheesecake layers for balanced flavor.
- Large eggs (3 total): Bind the ingredients and provide structure to the layers.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp): Enhances overall flavor depth in both layers.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers that deep chocolate punch in the brownie base.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides the necessary structure for fudgy brownies.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer with just the right tang.
- Cherry pie filling (1 cup): Offers a sweet-tart topping that brightens the rich dessert.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): Adds extra bursts of chocolaty richness with every bite.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out after baking, ensuring clean edges.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, then stir everything carefully until well combined. The batter should be thick yet spreadable. Pour and spread it evenly into your prepared pan, creating a chocolatey foundation that is rich and fudgy.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup sugar until luxurious and smooth. Add the remaining egg and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and lump-free. This silky cheesecake layer will add a tangy contrast that complements the deep chocolate beneath.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, smoothing it out gently but thoroughly so that it covers the entire layer. Don’t worry if it looks like a thin ribbon of light color—it will bake into perfection.
Step 5: Add Cherry Topping and Optional Chocolate Chips
Spoon dollops of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife, gently swirl the cherries into the cheesecake to create lovely marbled patterns. If you want that extra touch of chocolate decadence, sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips on top now.
Step 6: Bake and Chill
Bake the bars for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy texture after chilling. Allow the pan to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least two hours to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up for easy slicing.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To make these bars look even more inviting, dust a small amount of powdered sugar on top or add a few fresh cherries for extra freshness. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation, offering a bakery-style finish right at home.
Side Dishes
Pair these decadent bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. For a festive occasion, fresh mint leaves or a cup of strong coffee help balance the richness and complement the luscious layers perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe on a beautiful wooden board or an elegant dessert plate to highlight the layers. Slice into generous squares or small bites for a party platter. You can also layer crumbs of the leftover brownies on individual dessert glasses as a parfait base, topped with fresh cherries and cream for stylish variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and chilled, cover the bars tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious and moist for up to 4 days, making them perfect for preparing ahead for gatherings or simply enjoying over a few days.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually or in portions with plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
While these bars are best served chilled, if you prefer them slightly warm, reheat gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the cheesecake layer creamy and prevent the brownies from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries make a fantastic topping. Just cook them down with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a homemade compote that mimics pie filling texture and sweetness.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure all other ingredients, like chocolate chips, are also gluten-free.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan accordingly, such as 9×13 inches. Adjust baking time, checking doneness around 40 to 50 minutes.
Do I have to use cream cheese or can I substitute something else?
Cream cheese is key for that classic cheesecake tang and texture. While you could try mascarpone or ricotta, the flavor and consistency will change noticeably.
Why swirl the cherry topping instead of mixing it in?
Swirling keeps the distinct layers visually appealing and prevents the cherry topping from fully melding with the cheesecake, maintaining pronounced flavor contrast and attractive marbled patterns.
Final Thoughts
Once you taste these Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe, you’ll understand why they become an instant favorite. Rich, creamy, fruity, and chocolaty with each bite, they’re an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, bake a batch, and watch them disappear fast while earning yourself plenty of compliments!
Print
Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars, a luscious layered dessert combining fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry topping with optional chocolate chips for an extra touch of richness. Perfectly baked for a smooth, decadent treat that’s easy to make and ideal for entertaining or a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cherry Topping
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the brownie layer: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, mixing until smooth and well blended. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, stirring until incorporated. Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, flour, and salt, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Spread this brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to create a light cheesecake batter. Carefully spread this cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in the pan, being gentle to avoid mixing the two layers.
- Add the cherry topping and swirl: Spoon dollops of cherry pie filling evenly across the surface of the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cherries into the cheesecake to create a marbled effect. If desired, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips over the top to add extra richness.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy cheesecake texture.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to set fully and make slicing easier.
- Slice and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. For clean slices, wipe your knife between each cut. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich layers of chocolate, cheesecake, and cherries.
Notes
- Use homemade cherry compote for a less sweet, more natural cherry flavor.
- Wiping your knife clean between cuts helps achieve neat, clean slices.
- These bars can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
- For added richness, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips over the cherry topping before baking.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
