Description
Hello, dear readers! ???? If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors, then you’re in for a treat. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a delightful recipe for Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars. These heavenly bars are rich, creamy, and packed with the vibrant flavors of cherries and pistachios. Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a family gathering or simply want to indulge in something special, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, mix in the sour cream until fully combined.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly. Dollop the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top for a delightful crunch.
- Bake and cool: Bake the bars for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden around the edges. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Pro Tip: For the best results, use an electric mixer to achieve a perfectly smooth cream cheese filling. Be sure not to overmix after adding the eggs to prevent too much air from being incorporated, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps the ingredients combine more smoothly, preventing lumps in the filling.
- Chilling Time: Although it might be tempting to dig in right away, allowing the cheesecake bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours will help them set properly and make slicing easier.
- Even Swirls: When swirling the cherry pie filling into the cream cheese layer, use a light hand to create a beautiful marbled pattern without over-mixing the layers.