Cranberry Cheesecake Bars
Creamy cheesecake layered over a buttery graham cracker crust, swirled with tart cranberry sauce for a perfect sweet-tart balance. A festive dessert that's easy to serve and share.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tbsp sugar (for cranberries)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325F (165C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press into the pan and bake for 8 minutes.
- Cook cranberries with 2 tbsp sugar until soft, then blend into a puree.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour over crust, then swirl in cranberry puree.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then chill before slicing.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
- Chill at least 3 hours before serving.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- For a twist, use a shortbread crust instead of graham crackers.
- Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Cheesecake has been enjoyed since ancient Greece, but modern versions became popular in New York in the 20th century. The combination of smooth cheesecake and tart cranberries creates a delightful contrast.This dessert is perfect for holidays, as the cranberries add a festive touch and enhance the richness of the creamy cheesecake.