Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Name: Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); 16 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup chopped pistachios; 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling

Recipe By:

Stephanie

Posted:

May 18, 2025

Updated:

May 18, 2025

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Creamy and delightful, Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress. With a rich cheesecake layer swirled with cherry pie filling and topped with crunchy pistachios, they offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for novice bakers and busy schedules.
Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of cherries and pistachios creates an exciting taste that stands out from traditional cheesecake.
Versatile Dessert: These bars work well for any event, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinners.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in the fridge.
Impressive Presentation: The marbled effect of the cherry filling makes for an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth baking process. Having everything ready makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9×13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

9×13-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for creating perfectly shaped cheesecake bars that are easy to cut.
Electric mixer: Ensures the cream cheese mixture is smooth and fluffy, making your bars creamy.
Spatula: Helps in spreading the cheesecake layer evenly and swirling the cherry filling beautifully.

Ingredients

Creamy cheesecake bars swirled with cherry pie filling and topped with crunchy pistachios for a delightful dessert.

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream

For Topping

½ cup chopped pistachios
1 ½ cups cherry pie filling

How to Make Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
2. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan evenly to form a crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next.
4. Mix in sour cream until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust:
1. Spread it evenly across the crust.
2. Dollop cherry pie filling on top of the cheesecake layer.
3. Gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
4. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over everything.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until set and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow bars to cool at room temperature:
1. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
2. Enjoy your delicious Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

These delightful Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the tangy cheesecake bars beautifully.
Cherry Sorbet: A fruity option that enhances the cherry flavor in the bars.

Add Fresh Fruits

Sliced Strawberries: Their sweetness balances the tartness of the cherries.
Blueberries: These add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.

Drizzle with Sauce

Chocolate Sauce: A rich addition that pairs well with the creamy cheesecake.
Caramel Sauce: This sweet drizzle adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: This fluffy topping adds creaminess and lightness to each bite.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider almond or vanilla for an interesting twist.

How to Perfect Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

To achieve the best Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars, follow these tips for a flawless dessert every time.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to come to room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter without lumps.
Do Not Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake bars.
Cool Gradually: After baking, let the bars cool in the pan. Rapid temperature changes can cause cracks.
Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerate the bars for at least two hours before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

When serving Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars, consider these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits that provides a refreshing contrast.
Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for savory bites alongside your sweet bars.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cheesecake bars.
Mini Pastries: Offer assorted pastries like eclairs or cream puffs for variety and indulgence.
Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee enhances the sweetness of the dessert, making it a perfect pairing.
Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea can be a soothing companion to your rich cheesecake bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the crust preparation: A proper crust is essential for structure. Make sure to press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Not softening cream cheese: Using cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your cheesecake filling. Always allow it to soften at room temperature before starting.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can introduce air into the batter, leading to cracks. Mix just until combined for a smoother texture.
Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the bars too soon can result in a messy presentation. Let them cool completely and chill them in the fridge for best results.
Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars greatly depends on ingredient quality. Use fresh cherries, high-quality cream cheese, and real vanilla extract for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover bars in an airtight container.
They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds; check for warmth.
Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through, approximately 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different fruits instead of cherries?

You can definitely swap cherries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Just ensure that the fruit complements the flavors of your cheesecake bars.

How do I know when my Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are done?

The bars are done when they are set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cheesecake bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. This adjustment makes your Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What do you serve with Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various fruit and nut combinations. Their creamy texture and delightful flavors make them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize them according to your taste preferences; experiment with different toppings or flavorings!

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