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- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Add the almond extract, if using, for extra flavor.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a compact crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and mix until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the flour until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature, then transfer to the fridge to chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
- Make the cherry topping:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the cherries begin to release their juice.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the almond extract, if desired.
- Allow the cherry topping to cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the cheesecake bars:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the cherry topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Garnish with sliced almonds and fresh cherries for an added touch of elegance.
- Serve:
- Slice the cheesecake into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, sweet combination of almond, cherry, and cheesecake in every bite!
These Creamy Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of rich, creamy cheesecake and sweet, fruity cherry topping with a nutty almond touch. A truly indulgent treat for any occasion! 🍒🍰
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