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No-Bake Almond Cherry Dream Bars

These No-Bake Almond Cherry Dream Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert featuring a crunchy crust, creamy almond filling, and a sweet cherry topping, all without turning on the oven.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 3/4 cups crushed graham crackers For the perfect buttery crust. You can also use digestive biscuits if you’d like a different flavor.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds Choose raw or toasted almonds for an extra nutty crunch.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar This adds a touch of caramel flavor to the crust.
Filling
  • 2 cups cream cheese, softened Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream Cold cream whips best.
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar Add sweetness and structure to the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract Gives that signature almond flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall creaminess.
Topping
  • 2 cups cherry pie filling Store-bought is quick, but homemade adds a personal touch!
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps thicken the cherry topping for a firmer finish (optional).
  • 2 tablespoons water Used to dissolve cornstarch if required.
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds For garnishing and added crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, finely chopped almonds, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
  2. Transfer the mixture into a lined 9×9-inch pan, pressing firmly into an even layer. Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes until set.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, almond extract, and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Spread the almond cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust and refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.
  6. If desired, combine cornstarch and water, stir into the cherry filling over low heat, and cook until slightly thickened. Allow to cool completely.
  7. Spoon the cooled cherry topping evenly over the cream layer and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
  8. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours or until fully set. For cleaner slices, chill overnight before cutting.

Notes

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can prepare the graham cracker crust and filling a day ahead. If your crust crumbles when cutting, press it more firmly next time, and ensure it chills long enough.