Description
Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are a delightful layered dessert featuring a buttery pistachio crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet cherry topping. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, these bars deliver a beautiful balance of nutty, fruity, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the crust:
- 1 cup shelled pistachios
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- For the topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a food processor, pulse pistachios until finely ground. Combine with graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla and sour cream until combined.
- Pour cheesecake batter over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set and edges are slightly puffed.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with chopped pistachios if desired.
- Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use unsalted, roasted pistachios for the crust for the best flavor.
- Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting for clean slices.
- Try other fruit toppings like blueberry or raspberry if preferred.
- For extra decadence, drizzle with white chocolate before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cherry pistachio cheesecake bars, pistachio crust cheesecake, cherry dessert bars, creamy cheesecake squares, holiday dessert