Brownie Cheesecake Cherry Bars
Recipe Category: Bar Cookie | Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Cherries, Fruit, For Large Groups, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy
Description
This cherished recipe combines the best of brownies, creamy cheesecake, and a luscious cherry topping to create a dessert that’s sure to impress any crowd. Originally shared by a friend, these Brownie Cheesecake Cherry Bars have become a beloved dessert for gatherings and celebrations alike. With a decadent brownie base, a smooth cheesecake center, and a sweet cherry finish, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. While these bars taste best at room temperature, they should be stored in the refrigerator for freshness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Fat Content | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugar | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 470.7 | 20.2g | 6.6g | 62.9mg | 218.5mg | 66.2g | 0.5g | 33.3g | 6.3g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Eggs (for brownie mix) | 2 large |
| Vanilla | 1/4 cup |
| Egg (for cheesecake layer) | 1 large |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 1 package (8 oz) |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease the bottom of a 13×9 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars.
Brownie Layer:
- Mix the Brownie Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, oil, water, and 2 large eggs. Stir gently until all the dry ingredients are moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the brownies.
- Spread the Batter: Pour and spread the brownie batter evenly into the greased baking pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake the brownie layer for about 20 minutes or until it begins to set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake layer.
Cheesecake Layer:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the vanilla extract, 1 egg, sweetened condensed milk, and softened cream cheese. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Layer on the Brownies: Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked brownie layer, spreading it evenly.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels firm to the touch but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 2 hours at room temperature to ensure the cheesecake layer sets fully.
Cherry Layer:
- Spread the Cherry Filling: Once the bars are cool, gently spread the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into 1 1/2 or 2-inch squares for a delightful presentation.
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Storage Tips: While these bars taste best at room temperature, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
