Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Step-by-step instructions

Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios to add extra flavor and crunch.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, let it cool completely at room temperature.
Add the Cherry Topping: After the cheesecake has cooled, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the top. To make it extra special, garnish with additional chopped pistachios.
Chill and Serve: For the best results, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing. This chilling time firms up the texture and enhances the flavors beautifully.

Best ways to enjoy it

These cheesecake bars are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as is or dress them up for an elegant dessert. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. If you want to enhance the cherry flavor even more, consider drizzling a homemade cherry sauce on top right before serving.

How to store

To keep your Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze well! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Helpful cooking tips

If you prefer a firmer cheesecake, increase the baking time by a few minutes, keeping a close eye on the edges to prevent over-baking.
For a richer flavor, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This will help achieve a smoother consistency.
If you’re in a hurry, store-bought cherry pie filling can expedite the process while still delivering great taste.

Recipe variations

Feel free to get creative with this cheesecake bar recipe! You can swap out the pistachios for walnuts or almonds for an entirely different flavor. If cherries aren’t your favorite, consider using crushed pineapple or fresh blueberries for a twist. For a chocolate lover’s version, try mixing in chocolate chips or a layer of chocolate ganache instead of the cherry topping.

Your questions answered

Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! You can replace pistachios with walnuts, almonds, or even pecans based on your tastes.

Q: How long do these cheesecake bars need to set before serving?
A: They should chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to achieve the best texture and flavor.