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A square cranberry cheesecake bar with a vibrant red swirl on a white plate
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Cranberry Cheesecake Bars

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 245kcal

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1.25 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 large egg s
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 1.5 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang on two sides.
  • In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 0.25 cup of sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
  • In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, 0.25 cup of sugar, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  • Press the cranberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to create a smooth puree; discard the solids and set the puree aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and the remaining 0.75 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
  • Pour the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
  • Drop small spoonfuls of the cranberry puree onto the cheesecake batter. Use a thin knife or toothpick to swirl the puree into the cheesecake.
  • Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
  • Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before lifting from the pan and slicing into 16 bars.