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Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in creamy cheesecake layered over a crunchy pistachio crust, topped with vibrant cherries. A perfect dessert for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 9 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pistachio Crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups pistachio nuts, finely ground Use unsalted pistachios for the best flavor.
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted Make sure it's fully melted for easy mixing.
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoons 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 oz 16 oz cream cheese, softened Use room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 1 cups 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large 3 large eggs Add them one at a time.
  • 1 tablespoon Zest of one lemon Provides a fresh flavor.
For the Cherry Topping
  • 2 cups 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted Use fresh for better flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon cornstarch Thickens the cherry syrup.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the finely ground pistachios, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until fully combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and blend until creamy.
  5. Add the vanilla extract, eggs one at a time, and lemon zest, mixing just until combined.
  6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled pistachio crust and bake for 25–30 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  7. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  8. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir until softened and syrup is created. Let it cool.
  9. Once the cheesecake is set, pour the cherry topping over the bars, slice into squares, and serve.

Notes

For best results, chill the cheesecake bars properly. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.