These layered bars start with a rich, chocolatey brownie (homemade or boxed—your call), then get topped with a tangy cream cheese layer and finally a swirl or spoonful of cherry pie filling. Once they bake and chill, they slice beautifully into decadent bars with perfect layers.
Why You’ll Love Them
- Three delicious layers in one bite
- Brownie base = ultra fudgy + easy
- Cheesecake is creamy and tangy to balance the chocolate
- Cherry topping adds fruity, sweet contrast
- Great for holidays, birthdays, or make-ahead desserts
Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Chill Time: 2–4 hours
- Total Time: ~3 hours
- Servings: 16 bars
- Calories per bar: ~280 (depending on ingredients used)
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra gooeyness
Or use your favorite boxed brownie mix prepared as directed for the base!
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- Optional: splash of almond extract or lemon zest for flavor boost
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars
1. Prep the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. Make the Brownie Layer
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla; whisk until smooth.
- Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix just until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Spread into prepared pan.
Tip: Reserve 1–2 tablespoons of brownie batter to swirl on top if you want a marbled effect!
3. Mix the Cheesecake Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla; mix until creamy and lump-free.
- Gently spread over brownie layer.
4. Add the Cherry Topping
- Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake.
- Use a knife or toothpick to swirl gently, or just leave in bold pockets.
- Optional: add tiny dollops of leftover brownie batter for a marbled swirl.
5. Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a little jiggle is okay!).
- Let cool completely at room temp, then chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Chilling = cleaner cuts and maximum flavor.
6. Slice & Serve
- Use a sharp knife (wipe between cuts!) to slice into 16 bars.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or extra cherries if you’re feelin’ fancy.
Serving Ideas
- Serve chilled or at room temp—both are amazing
- Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or cherry syrup
- Top with whipped cream and a fresh cherry
- Serve with coffee or sparkling cherry lemonade
Variations
- Use raspberry or strawberry topping instead of cherry
- Add almond extract to the brownie or cheesecake layer for cherry-almond vibes
- Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a deeper, richer flavor
- Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or GF brownie mix
- Add a graham cracker crust under the brownie layer for texture
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze sliced bars between layers of parchment in an airtight container for up to 1 month
- Thaw: In fridge overnight or at room temp for 30 minutes
FAQ
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely! Just prepare as directed and use as your base layer.
Do I have to chill them?
Yes—chilling sets the cheesecake and makes the bars easier to slice.
Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes—just cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken into a compote before using.
Is this halal?
Yes! Just use halal-certified dairy and make sure your chocolate/cherry filling contains no gelatin or alcohol flavorings.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars are sweet, rich, and ridiculously satisfying. You’ve got creamy, tangy cheesecake… bold chocolate brownie… and that juicy cherry topping pulling it all together. It’s basically three desserts in one bite—and totally worth every step.
