Indulge in the delightful taste of Crunchy Pistachio Cheesecake Bars, a perfect treat that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the nutty crunch of pistachios and the sweet tang of cherry preserves. This recipe guide offers a straightforward approach to creating these irresistible bars, ensuring a dessert that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to savor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these cheesecake bars promise to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter, chilled and diced

1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 cup roasted pistachios, chopped
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup cherry preserves
Whole cherries and extra pistachios for garnish

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and butter. Mix until crumbly, then press into the bottom of your prepared pan. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and bake for 15 minutes.
Drop cherry preserves by spoonfuls over crust layer and gently swirl with a knife.

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream. Pour over the cherry layer.
Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Cut into bars and garnish each with a cherry and a sprinkle of pistachios before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes | Kcal: 350 | Servings: 24 bars

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Calories: 350
Carbohydrates: 28g

Protein: 5g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g

Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 180mg
Potassium: 95mg

Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 16g
Vitamin A: 10% DV

Vitamin C: 0.5% DV
Calcium: 5% DV
Iron: 10% DV

These bars are a good source of iron and vitamin A, contributing to your daily nutritional needs. The combination of nuts and dairy provides a balance of monounsaturated fats and protein, making it a satisfying treat.

Notes

Storage: Keep the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Variations: Feel free to substitute the cherry preserves with any fruit preserve of your choice for a different flavor profile.
Nut Allergy: For those with nut allergies, omit the pistachios and use a nut-free crust alternative.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of preserves? Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Pit and halve them, then cook with a bit of sugar over medium heat until they release their juices and thicken slightly before using.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend to make the crust.

Can I freeze these cheesecake bars? Yes, these bars freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I know when the cheesecake filling is set? The filling should not jiggle excessively when gently shaken. A slight jiggle in the center is fine as it will set further upon cooling.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Crunchy Pistachio & Cherry Cheesecake Bars, a treat that promises to be as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!