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If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of cranberries, these Cheesecake Cranberry Bars are just what you need. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a weekend treat, these bars are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake. They’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
A Holiday Favorite with a Twist
Cheesecake is always a crowd-pleaser, but adding a layer of cranberry sauce takes it to the next level. The tartness of the cranberries perfectly balances the creamy cheesecake filling, making these bars the ultimate dessert for those who love a bit of zing with their sweet treats.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Cranberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Serving Size
Serves: 12
Serving Size: 1 bar
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Make Cheesecake Cranberry Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Topping
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10–12 minutes. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool slightly before spooning it over the cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the bars are fully chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Slice into 12 squares and serve. These Cheesecake Cranberry Bars are best enjoyed cold and make for a delightful dessert that’s both creamy and tangy.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
These Cheesecake Cranberry Bars bring together the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the bright, tart flavor of cranberries. They’re perfect for those moments when you want a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can whip up a batch for any occasion without breaking a sweat.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a holiday dessert table or just want to treat yourself to something special, these Cheesecake Cranberry Bars are a fantastic choice. Their combination of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for the recipe. So go ahead, give them a try, and watch them disappear in no time!
