Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a buttery shortbread-like base, creamy cheesecake filling, tart cherry topping, and a crispy almond crumb layer, these bars are a must-try! Ideal for parties, picnics, or simply as an after-dinner dessert, the combination of flavors makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later!

Why You’ll Love This Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars offer a unique twist on traditional desserts that everyone will enjoy.

• Delicious Flavor Explosion: The balance of tart cherries and creamy cheesecake creates a satisfying taste experience.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just an afternoon snack.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can impress with this recipe.
• Make-Ahead Option: These bars stay fresh for days when stored correctly, making them ideal for meal prep.
• Beautiful Presentation: The layers create an eye-catching dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 13×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures your cream cheese is smooth and blends well with other ingredients for a creamy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance in flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Cherry Layer

• 4 c (about 1 1/4 lb, or .6kg) Tart Cherries, pitted, or 20 oz. frozen
• 3/4 c (148g) Granulated Sugar
• 2 t (10ml) Lemon Juice
• 4 T (32g) Cornstarch or Cornflour
• 1/4 tsp (3ml) Almond Extract
• Large pinch Kosher salt

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 12 oz (339g) Cream Cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 c (50g) Confectioners’ Sugar
• 1 Large Egg

For the Crust & Crumb Topping

• 1.5 c (180g) All-Purpose Flour
• 1.5 c (180g) Whole Wheat Pastry Flour
• 1 c (198g) Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp (4g) Baking Powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1 c (227g) Unsalted Butter, cut into small cubes
• 1 Large Egg, whisked slightly chilled
• 1/2 c (60g) Sliced Almonds

How to Make Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the tart cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, almond extract, and kosher salt until well combined.
2. Set aside while you prepare the crust.

Step 3: Make the Crust and Crumb Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat pastry flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add in the cubed unsalted butter. Use an electric mixer on low speed or your hands to combine until crumbly.
3. Reserve one cup of this mixture for topping; press the rest into the bottom of a greased 13×9-inch baking pan to form an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. In another bowl, beat together cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Add in one large egg; mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
2. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
3. Sprinkle reserved crumb topping on top along with sliced almonds for added crunch.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow cooling completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delicious Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars!

How to Serve Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you want to enhance their flavors or pair them with other treats, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the crumb bars, enhancing their rich flavors and providing a perfect balance.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cherry ice cream on top adds creaminess and an extra layer of flavor, making every bite even more indulgent.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over the bars creates a delicious contrast, adding a touch of elegance to your presentation.

Serve with Fresh Berries

• Accompanying the bars with fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, adds freshness and a pop of color on your plate.

Top with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream offers lightness and enhances the bar’s creamy texture while adding a festive touch.

Enjoy with Yogurt

• Pairing these bars with yogurt makes for a delightful breakfast option, merging sweet and tart flavors in every bite.

How to Perfect Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Perfecting Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter that bakes evenly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough bars. Overmixing can lead to dense texture instead of light and airy.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the bars cool completely and chill in the fridge for at least an hour enhances their flavor and makes cutting easier.
• Opt for Fresh Cherries When Possible: If you have access to fresh tart cherries, use them instead of frozen for a more vibrant flavor and better texture.
• Adjust Sugar Levels: Taste your cherry mixture before baking. You can adjust the sugar level according to your preference for sweetness.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the bars once they’re cooled, ensuring clean cuts.

Best Side Dishes for Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider when serving this dessert.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich crumb bars.
2. Cheese Platter: Include an assortment of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast against the sweetness of the bars.
3. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola provides texture and pairs well as a topping or side, adding wholesome goodness to your dessert spread.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats add a touch of indulgence and pair perfectly with the tartness of the cherry cheesecake bars.
5. Mini Pastries: Offering mini pastries like eclairs or macarons allows guests to enjoy additional sweet bites alongside their cherry cheesecake treat.
6. Cold Brew Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like iced tea balances out the richness of the cheesecake crumb bars while keeping diners cool.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few important details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Frozen Cherries Without Thawing: If you opt for frozen tart cherries, make sure to thaw and drain them first. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the texture of your bars.
• Not Softening Cream Cheese: Always let your cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
• Overmixing the Dough: When combining your flour and butter for the crumb layer, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of a tender crumb.
• Skipping the Almond Extract: Don’t skip the almond extract! It adds a delightful depth of flavor that complements the tart cherries beautifully.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This helps them hold their shape and makes for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Check and heat in additional increments if necessary.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Warm each bar for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour and whole wheat pastry flour with gluten-free flour blends. Check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tart cherries work well! Just make sure they are pitted and cut into halves or quarters for even cooking.

What can I serve with Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars?

These bars pair nicely with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

How long do these bars last at room temperature?

Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days before refrigeration is needed.

Final Thoughts

Tart Cherry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different fruits or nuts according to your taste. They make an excellent dessert for gatherings or simply a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!