Festive Cheesecake Bars with Cranberry Topping

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These festive cheesecake bars are perfect for Christmas as they vary between sweet, creamy vanilla and tangy cranberry. Being easy preparing, they are perfect for any event and are sure to grace any Christmas celebration. You can just finish them off with a splash of chocolate, or a dusting of nuts for a bit of class!

– makes about 12 servings –

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup sugar (for cranberry topping)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Optional: chocolate drizzle for garnish


Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add ¾ cup sugar, mixing until well combined.
  4. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set. Remove and let cool.
  7. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, ½ cup water, and ½ cup sugar. Cook over medium heat until cranberries pop and mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in lemon juice.
  8. Once cheesecake bars are cooled, pour the cranberry topping over them, spreading evenly.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set. Cut into squares and serve, drizzled with chocolate if desired.

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