Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
2 cups cherries, pitted and halved
1/4 cup sugar (for cherries)
3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar (for cheesecake)
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Prepare the crust: Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Set aside.
3️⃣ Make the cherry mixture: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, 1/4 cup sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
4️⃣ Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
5️⃣ Assemble the bars: Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the pan. Spoon the cherry mixture evenly over the top. Add the remaining cheesecake mixture on top and swirl with a knife to create a marble effect.
6️⃣ Top with chocolate chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the cheesecake layer.
7️⃣ Bake for 45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the center is only slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 24 bars | Calories: 320 kcal per serving