Party classic’: Just 3 ingredients. I’ve made this so many times I don’t even measure anymore.

These Cherry Cheesecake Bars embody the spirit of Midwestern hospitality—simple, generous, and made with love. With just three core ingredients (plus a few pantry staples), you’ll have a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and glossy cherry topping ready in less time than it takes to order takeout.

No mixer. No fuss. Just stir, spread, bake, and share. And yes—this recipe makes two pans, so you can keep one and gift the other.

💛 Why You’ll Love These Bars

• 🍒 Only 3 main ingredients (+ pantry basics)
• ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 30 minutes bake
• 💸 Costs under $6 total
• 🥣 One bowl, one pan (or two glass dishes)
• 🌟 Nostalgic flavor without complicated steps

✨ The 3 Magic Ingredients

Pantry essentials:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• Pinch of salt

💡 Pro Tips

• Always use full-fat cream cheese—low-fat won’t set properly.
• Stir crust mixture until crumbly; don’t overmix.
• Glass dishes = even baking + perfect for gifting.

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Crust & Cheesecake Layer

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8×8-inch glass dishes (or one 9×13).
• Mix cake mix, melted butter, egg, and salt in a bowl.
• Press half into each dish (or all into 9×13).
• Beat cream cheese until smooth, then spread evenly over crust.

2. Top with Cherries

• Spoon cherry pie filling over cream cheese, leaving a border.
• Optional: swirl gently with a knife for marbled edges.

3. Bake to Perfection

• Bake 25–30 minutes, until edges are golden and center is just set.
• Cool completely, then chill at least 2 hours for clean slices.

4. Serve & Share

• Cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
• Pack one pan with a note or ribbon—instant goodwill.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

• ☕ Classic: Pair with strong coffee or sweet iced tea
• 🥛 Kid-friendly: Cold after school or tucked into lunchboxes
• 🎉 Potluck-ready: On a platter with napkins and a serving spatula
• 🍦 Decadent: With vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage

• Fridge: Keeps up to 5 days; flavor deepens overnight.
• Freeze: Slice, wrap in parchment, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge.
• Gift tip: Tie a ribbon around the dish and tuck in a disposable spatula.

❤️ The Heart of the Recipe

These bars aren’t just dessert—they’re a gesture of kindness, a way to say “I’ve got you” without words. No perfection required, just simple sweetness meant to be shared.

“Good baking doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs enough for two.” 🍒✨