Gluten-Free Cherry Cheesecake Bars

These Gluten-Free Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a dreamy dessert that combines a buttery almond crust, rich cheesecake filling, and a tangy-sweet cherry topping. They’re easy to slice, serve, and enjoy for holidays, picnics, or a treat-anytime kind of day. With their creamy texture and fruity burst, these bars are everything you love about cheesecake in a handheld, gluten-free form.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs (or almond flour for a nutty twist)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)

For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) gluten-free cherry pie filling (check label!)
  Or use homemade cherry compote if preferred

• Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare Pan
     Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

  2. Make the Crust
     In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

  3. Prepare Cheesecake Layer
     In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until fully blended.

  4. Bake the Cheesecake Bars
     Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours (or overnight).

  5. Add Cherry Topping
     Once chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.

  6. Slice and Serve
     Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled!

  7. Tips

     • Want homemade cherry topping? Simmer fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and lemon juice until thickened.

     • For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and sour cream.

     • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

     Would you like a homemade cherry topping recipe too?