“A party staple: only 3 ingredients, and I’ve made it so often I don’t even measure anymore.”
These Cherry Cheesecake Bars capture the heart of Midwestern hospitality—simple, generous, and made with love. With just three main ingredients (plus a few pantry basics), you get a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and glossy cherry topping in less time than it takes to grab takeout.
No mixer. No stress. Just stir, spread, bake, and share. Bonus: this recipe makes two pans—keep one, gift the other.
💛 Why You’ll Adore These Bars
🍒 Only 3 main ingredients (+ pantry staples)
⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 30 minutes bake
💸 Costs under $6 total
🥣 One bowl, one pan (or two glass dishes)
🌟 Nostalgic flavors without complicated steps
✨ The 3 Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | 1 box (18.25 oz) | Use a classic brand like Betty Crocker |
| Cream cheese | 1 block (8 oz), softened | Full-fat gives best texture |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) | Swap with blueberry, apple, or peach if preferred |
Pantry Essentials:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- Pinch of salt
💡 Pro Tips
- Always use full-fat cream cheese—low-fat won’t set right.
- Stir the crust mixture until crumbly; avoid overmixing.
- Glass dishes = even baking + perfect for gifting.
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust & Cheesecake Layer
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8×8-inch glass dishes (or one 9×13).
- Mix cake mix, melted butter, egg, and salt.
- Press half into each dish (or all into a 9×13).
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, then spread evenly over the crust.
2. Add the Cherries
- Spoon cherry pie filling over cream cheese, leaving a small border.
- Optional: swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Bake 25–30 minutes until edges are golden and center is set.
- Cool completely, then chill at least 2 hours for clean slices.
4. Serve & Share
- Cut into squares; dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Gift one pan with a note or ribbon for instant cheer.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- ☕ Classic: Pair with coffee or sweet iced tea
- 🥛 Kid-friendly: Cold after school or in lunchboxes
- 🎉 Potluck-ready: On a platter with napkins and a spatula
- 🍦 Decadent: With vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage
- Fridge: Up to 5 days; flavor improves overnight
- Freeze: Slice, wrap in parchment, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge
- Gift tip: Tie a ribbon and include a disposable spatula
❤️ The Heart of the Recipe
These bars aren’t just dessert—they’re a gesture of kindness, a way to say “I’ve got you” without words. No perfection needed, just simple sweetness meant to be shared.
“Good baking doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs enough for two.” 🍒✨
