Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Introduction:

Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate indulgence, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful crunch of pistachios and the sweet-tart burst of fresh cherries. This dessert strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, offering a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, a potluck, or just craving something indulgent, these cheesecake bars will impress every time.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted pistachios, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped

For the cherry topping:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Directions:

1. Prepare the crust:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Make the cheesecake filling:
   In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Add in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fully incorporated. Gradually add the heavy cream and mix until smooth. Fold in the chopped pistachios and cherries.
3. Assemble the bars:
   Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the bars to firm up.
4. Prepare the cherry topping:
   In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake bars.
5. Serve:
   Once the bars have cooled and the cherry topping has set, cut into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with extra chopped pistachios, if desired, for a pop of color and crunch.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving: Serve these bars cold for the best texture and flavor. They’re great on their own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars also freeze well—wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Variations:

• Cherry substitution: If cherries are out of season or unavailable, you can swap them for other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
• Crust options: You can experiment with different crusts by substituting graham crackers with digestive biscuits, shortbread, or even a nut-based crust for extra crunch.
• Nut-free option: Omit the pistachios from the crust and filling for a nut-free version. You could replace them with a different flavor of nut, or even add coconut flakes to the crust for a tropical twist.

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen cherries for the topping?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking to avoid excess liquid.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste even better after they’ve had some time to chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop.

3. How can I make the cheesecake filling firmer?
If you prefer a firmer cheesecake, you can add an extra egg yolk to the filling mixture. Another option is to use a little less heavy cream for a thicker consistency.

4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and golden brown, but the center should still have a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools in the fridge.

Enjoy these decadent Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars for your next celebration, or just to treat yourself to a rich, flavorful dessert that’s bound to become a favorite!