Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert featuring a chocolate cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a cherry topping. These bars combine the classic flavors of a Black Forest cake into an easy-to-make treat. Perfect for any gathering, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these bars and enjoy a slice of heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love making these Black Forest cheesecake squares:

Rich chocolate cookie crust that provides a delightful crunch.
Creamy cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth.
Sweet cherry topping that adds a fruity burst.
Perfect for parties or a casual dessert at home.
Can be made gluten-free with a few simple substitutions.
Easy to prepare, making it a great choice for beginner bakers.
Low-calorie options available for those watching their diet.
Versatile enough to be served at any occasion.

Ingredients for Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Gather these items:

For the Crust

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo or similar)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cocoa powder

For the Cherry Topping

1 can (15 oz) cherry pie filling
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tablespoon water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and cocoa powder until fully combined.
Step 6: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 8: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry pie filling with cornstarch and water (if using). Stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 9: Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 10: Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the cherry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Step 11: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and set.
Step 12: Use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into bars and serve chilled.

Delicious Black Forest Cheesecake Bars Recipe to Savor - Black Forest Cheesecake Bars - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Keep these in mind:

Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
Chill the bars for optimal texture and flavor.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with a gluten-free option.
Experiment with different fruit toppings for variety.

Best Ways to Serve Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Here are some fantastic serving ideas:

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added decadence.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert experience.
Enjoy as part of a dessert platter alongside chocolate cherry cheesecake bars for variety.

How to Store and Reheat Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

For best results, store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week. If you want to reheat them, allow them to come to room temperature first, or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Black Forest cheesecake bars?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients, especially for the cream cheese and cherries. Make sure to chill the bars properly for that perfect texture.

Can I make Black Forest cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are well-covered and refrigerated until serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Black Forest cheesecake bars?

To avoid cracks in your cheesecake, mix the filling gently and avoid over-beating the eggs. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth batter.

Variations of Black Forest Cheesecake Bars You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Substitute the chocolate cookie crust with a Black Forest cheesecake with graham cracker crust for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of almond extract to the filling for a unique twist.
Top with fresh cherries instead of pie filling for a fresher taste.
Try a layer of chocolate ganache on top for an extra indulgent treat.

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For more tips on baking, check out this guide for beginner bakers.

For information on the health benefits of cherries, visit Healthline.

For more dessert ideas, explore our dessert collection.