Description
These Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake layered with juicy cherries and crunchy pistachios, creating a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors in every bite. Ideal for dessert lovers seeking an indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare and visually stunning.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheesecake Bars
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan to form the crust layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt, mixing thoroughly to combine.
- Assemble the Bars: Sprinkle half of the chopped pistachios evenly over the cooled crust. Pour the cheesecake batter over the pistachios and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the pitted cherries evenly on top of the batter, then scatter the remaining pistachios over the cherries.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but mostly firm. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars moist.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from oven and let the cheesecake bars cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to fully set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once chilled, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar before slicing into bars. Serve cold and enjoy the creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries based on availability; thaw frozen cherries before using.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smooth batter.
- For a nut-free version, omit pistachios or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor that complements the cherries.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
