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Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe

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4 from 38 reviews

Delightful Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars featuring a buttery oat and almond crust, creamy cheesecake filling with almond and vanilla extracts, and luscious cherry preserves swirled throughout. Perfectly baked for a sweet, tangy, and crumbly treat that’s easy to make and share.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup quick-cooking oats (not instant)
  • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup light corn syrup
  • 2 tablespoons lightly packed brown sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ⅔ cup cherry preserves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the bars.
  2. Make the crust mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine quick-cooking oats, all-purpose flour, sliced almonds, cinnamon, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and softened butter. Using an electric mixer, blend until the mixture forms crumbly clumps.
  3. Form the crust: Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer. Save the remaining third of the crumbs for the topping later.
  4. Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy without lumps.
  5. Assemble the filling: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the pressed crust in the pan, spreading gently.
  6. Add cherry preserves: Microwave the cherry preserves in a microwave-safe container on high power for 5 to 10 seconds to soften slightly. Drop spoonfuls of the warm preserves over the cream cheese mixture and use a knife to swirl the preserves gently throughout to create a marbled effect.
  7. Top with remaining crumbs: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the swirled filling, covering as much surface as possible.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center is set and the top crumbs are lightly golden.
  9. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Do not overbake; the center should be set but slightly soft for a creamy texture.
  • Use parchment paper over standard greasing for easier cleanup and removal.
  • Cherry preserves can be substituted with other fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry for variation.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/cherry-cheesecake-crumb-bars-recipe/