Indulge in the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and fruity with these Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a delightful topping of sweet cherries and crunchy pistachios, these bars make for a decadent treat. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress at a party or a sweet snack for yourself, these cheesecake bars are a blissful choice. Let’s dive into this recipe and create a dessert that’s sure to please every palate!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
Instructions:
- Prepare the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Either line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly pack the crumb mixture across the base of the lined baking dish for an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to compact the crust firmly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Incorporate the eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition until completely blended. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until smooth and velvety.
- Bake the cheesecake bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Add the toppings: Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the cherries for a delightful crunch and vibrant pop of color.
- Slice and serve: Gently lift the cheesecake bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper, and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares or bars and serve chilled.
Conclusion:
These Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars combine the smooth, creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet tartness of cherries and the nutty crunch of pistachios. With their beautiful layers and irresistible flavor, they’re perfect for any dessert table or special occasion. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these bars will become a go-to favorite when you’re craving a little something sweet and indulgent. Enjoy every bite!