Description
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
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
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.