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Irresistible Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars

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These cranberry swirl cheesecake bars combine the festive flavor of cranberries with the indulgent richness of cheesecake, making them the perfect holiday dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until evenly moistened, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes and set aside.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 8-10 minutes). Stir in orange zest if using, and let cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
  4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly. Spoon small dollops of cranberry sauce onto the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the sauce into the filling, creating a marbled effect.
  5. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Remove and let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) before slicing.
  6. Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

[‘Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.’, ‘Let cream cheese and eggs warm up to room temperature for a smooth filling.’, ‘Chill the cheesecake bars thoroughly overnight for best results.’, ‘Use a light hand when swirling the cranberry sauce to maintain distinct swirls.’, ‘Don’t overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly when removed from the oven.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cheesecake bars, holiday dessert, festive cheesecake, cranberry swirl, cheesecake recipe

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/irresistible-cranberry-swirl-cheesecake-bars-recipe-for-holidays/