Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs.
02 - 1/4 cup melted butter.
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
04 - 2 cups cream cheese, softened.
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar.
06 - 2 large eggs.
07 - 1 tsp almond extract.
08 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
09 - 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved.
10 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional).
11 - 1 cup powdered sugar.
12 - 2-3 tbsp milk.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
02 - In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened, then press into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract, then beat until well combined.
04 - Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
05 - Sprinkle the fresh cherries evenly over the top and add sliced almonds if desired.
06 - Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are golden brown.
07 - Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool completely in the pan to set the layers properly.
08 - In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth to make the glaze.
09 - Once the cheesecake bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes:

01 - Prep Time: 20 minutes.
02 - Cook Time: 35 minutes.
03 - Total Time: 55 minutes.
04 - Servings: 12 bars.