Description
These Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery pistachio graham cracker crust, creamy pistachio-studded cheesecake, and a glossy cherry topping—perfect for elegant yet easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
- For the topping:
- 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling or homemade cherry topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, pistachios, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until smooth.
- Fold in chopped pistachios and spread cheesecake mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Cool to room temperature.
- Spread cherry topping over the cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Slice into 12 bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use unsalted pistachios for better flavor control.
- Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a nuttier taste.
- Chocolate cookie crust can be used for extra richness.
- Use raspberry or strawberry topping as a seasonal variation.
- Homemade cherry topping: simmer pitted cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
