How to Make Tangy Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Bars
Cranberry orange cheesecake bars are a delightful dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season or anytime you’re craving something sweet and tangy. These bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the bright flavors of cranberries and oranges. The best part? They’re easy to make! In this article, we’ll walk you through simple steps to create your own cranberry orange cheesecake bars at home.
What You’ll Need
Before we begin, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs (about 10 crackers)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
For the cheesecake filling:
– 16 ounces (two blocks) of cream cheese, softened
– 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of sour cream
– 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon of orange zest
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the cranberry topping:
– 2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the crust. Make sure it’s packed tightly so it holds together.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
- Stir in the sour cream, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the cheesecake bars for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set. The edges should look firm while the middle has a slight jiggle.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours. Chilling ensures the bars firm up and are easy to slice.
Step 4: Make the Cranberry Topping
- While the cheesecake chills, make the cranberry topping. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will start to break down and create a jammy sauce.
- Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Let the cranberry topping cool completely before adding it to the cheesecake.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread the cooled cranberry topping evenly over the surface.
- Use the parchment paper to lift the cheesecake out of the baking dish. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars.
- Serve the cranberry orange cheesecake bars chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients: Softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs will ensure a smoother cheesecake filling without lumps.
- Don’t rush the chilling process: The cheesecake needs time to firm up in the fridge before slicing. Try making it a day ahead so it’s ready to serve.
- Customize the topping: If you want to add extra flavor, sprinkle some orange zest or crushed nuts on top of the cranberry sauce.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars
Cranberry orange cheesecake bars are the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The buttery graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy cheesecake filling delivers richness. The tart cranberries and citrusy orange zest balance the sweetness, making each bite irresistible.
These bars are great for serving at parties, family gatherings, or as a treat to enjoy at home. Plus, they’re portable and easy to slice, making them ideal for potlucks or holiday desserts.
Final Thoughts
Making tangy cranberry orange cheesecake bars is simpler than it seems. With a handful of ingredients and some basic steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re new to baking or a pro in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and whip up a batch of these delicious cheesecake bars today. Your taste buds will thank you!
