Ingredients for the Buttery Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
⭐ Ingredients for the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (optional but brightens the cheesecake flavor)
⭐ Ingredients for the Cherry Layer
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
(or 2 cups homemade cherry filling)
🔥 Instructions (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Buttery Crust
- In a bowl, cream together butter + sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix to form a soft buttery dough.
- Press ⅔ of the dough into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
Keyword: buttery crust, soft cookie crust, golden base, dessert bar crust.
3. Prepare the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
- Beat cream cheese + sugar until smooth.
- Add egg + vanilla + lemon juice.
- Spread this creamy cheesecake mixture over the crust.
Keyword: creamy cheesecake layer, smooth filling, rich cream cheese mixture.
4. Add the Sweet Cherry Layer
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Keyword: cherry layer, fruity cherry filling, sweet cherry topping, glossy cherry layer.
5. Add the Top Crust
- Crumble the remaining ⅓ buttery dough over the top.
6. Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until lightly golden around edges.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate 2 hours before slicing.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for the best creamy texture.
- Drizzle with extra cherry sauce for more flavor.
- Perfect for holidays, parties, potlucks, and easy make-ahead desserts.