Creamy Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars (Print version)

Creamy almond cheesecake bars baked over a buttery graham crust with juicy cherries, sliced almonds, and a light glaze.

# Ingredients:

For the crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup (35 g) sliced almonds, finely chopped
03 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
05 - 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling

06 - 16 oz (450 g) full-fat block cream cheese, softened
07 - 2/3 cup (135 g) granulated sugar
08 - 1/3 cup (80 g) sour cream, room temperature
09 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
10 - 1 teaspoon almond extract
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cherry topping

12 - 1 1/2 cups (225 g) pitted halved cherries, fresh or thawed frozen
13 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
14 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
15 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
16 - 1/4 cup (25 g) sliced almonds

For the glaze

17 - 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar
18 - 1-2 tablespoons milk
19 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
02 - Mix graham crumbs, chopped almonds, sugar, salt, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the pan and bake for 8 minutes, then cool while you make the filling.
03 - Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, scraping the bowl well. Mix in sour cream, then add eggs, almond extract, and vanilla. Beat on low just until combined.
04 - Toss cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Spread the cheesecake filling over the crust, then scatter the cherries and sliced almonds evenly over the top.
05 - Bake for 32-36 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still has a slight wobble. Cool completely in the pan at room temperature.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla into a thin glaze, drizzle over the chilled bars, and slice into 12 squares.

# Good to know:

01 - Chill at least 2 hours before slicing for the cleanest bars.
02 - Frozen cherries can be used if thawed, drained, and patted dry.
03 - Best served cold from the refrigerator.

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