Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries with the rich, nutty taste of pistachios.
- Easy-to-follow recipe that yields impressive, bakery-quality results.
- Versatile and customizable with toppings or variations to suit your taste.
- Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent dessert at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crust
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Pistachios, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Sugar
Filling
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- Pistachios, coarsely chopped
- Cherry pie filling (or fresh pitted cherries)
Topping
- Pistachios, coarsely chopped
- Cherry pie filling (extra for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pistachios, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in coarsely chopped pistachios and gently fold in the cherry pie filling.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars:
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is just set.
- Remove from the oven, cool completely, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Add Toppings:
- Before serving, spread extra cherry pie filling over the bars.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and garnish with whipped cream, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut into bars and enjoy a deliciously layered dessert that’s sure to impress.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 12-16 bars, depending on the size.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cooling & Chilling Time: 3-4 hours
Variations
- Fruit Substitutes: Use blueberry or raspberry pie filling instead of cherry for a new twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pistachios with graham crackers or oats for a nut-free crust.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a crust suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: These bars are best served cold, but you can let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating for a softer texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, simply pit and chop the cherries, then simmer them with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a homemade filling.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives.
3. How long do these bars need to chill?
They need to chill for at least 3 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal for the best texture.
4. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may not be as rich and creamy. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended.
5. What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping the blade clean between each cut.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Certainly! Use a larger pan and adjust the baking time slightly.
7. Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, simply skip the pistachios for a nut-free version.
8. Can I use a springform pan instead of a 9×13 pan?
Yes, but the baking time may need slight adjustment.
9. What’s a good substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute.
10. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use vegan cream cheese, plant-based sour cream, and an egg substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Conclusion
Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of cherries and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress.
Delectable Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the ultimate dessert with Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars! A perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, tangy cherries, and crunchy pistachios that’s easy to make and ideal for parties or indulgent moments.
Ingredients
Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Pistachios, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Sugar
Filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- Pistachios, coarsely chopped
- Cherry pie filling (or fresh pitted cherries)
Topping:
- Pistachios, coarsely chopped
- Cherry pie filling (extra for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pistachios, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
- Press into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
- Make the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well.
- Mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- Stir in chopped pistachios and fold in cherry pie filling.
- Bake:
- Pour filling over the crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set.
- Cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Add Toppings:
- Spread extra cherry pie filling.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios and garnish with whipped cream if desired.
- Serve:
- Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or raspberry for variety.
- Gluten-free graham crackers can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Bars are best served cold but can be left at room temperature for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American