Cherry-Cheese Brownie Bars
Rich cherry-cheese brownie bars combine fudgy chocolate with sweet cherry filling and creamy cheese, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a decadent treat that balances fruity and chocolaty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions, but bake for only 20 minutes.
- While the brownies are baking, mix the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla until smooth.
- Once the brownies are baked and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you don’t have cherry pie filling, fresh or frozen cherries can be used instead; just cook them down with some sugar until thickened. Ensure your brownie mix is well combined to avoid dry spots, and let the cream cheese layer set for a smoother cut.
Serving Suggestions
These brownie bars are perfect for serving at gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a slice of Orange Cheese Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry-Cheese Brownie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm. This will help soften the cream cheese layer, making it even more delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Cheese Brownie Bars contains roughly 1185 calories, with 22g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 920mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling adds a classic touch, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry. Just make sure the filling is thick enough to hold its shape over the cream cheese layer.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these brownie bars can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store them in the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these brownie bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free brownie mix instead of the regular one. Just check the ingredients in your cream cheese and cherry filling to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).