Description
Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream until fully combined.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
Dollop the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden around the edges.
Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
#lovealletherecipes
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bars every time. First, ensure all dairy ingredients (cream cheese, eggs, sour cream) are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling. When pressing the crust, use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to compact it firmly and evenly. For the filling, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium speed for a full 2-3 minutes until completely creamy. Incorporate eggs on low speed to prevent excess air, which can cause cracking. When swirling the cherry pie filling, use a butter knife and make just 3-4 figure-eight motions for a beautiful marbled effect without overmixing.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant bars are versatile. For a festive touch, garnish each bar with a whole cherry and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. They pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a dessert wine like Moscato. For a party, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.
How-to Summary
In summary: Prepare a graham cracker crust and press it into a lined pan. Create a smooth cream cheese filling with sugar, vanilla, eggs, and sour cream. Pour over the crust, add dollops of cherry pie filling and swirl. Top with chopped pistachios. Bake until set, then cool completely and chill before slicing into bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling? Yes, but you must cook them down with sugar and a thickener like cornstarch to create a compote, as fresh cherries will release too much water during baking.
How should I store these cheesecake bars? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Why did my cheesecake crack? Cracking is often caused by overmixing the batter (incorporating too much air) or a sudden temperature change. Cooling gradually at room temperature helps prevent this.
Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free cookie crumbs or certified gluten-free graham crackers.
My bars are too soft to cut neatly. What went wrong? This usually means they needed a longer chilling time. Ensure they are refrigerated for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, for clean, sharp cuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese or eggs, which leads to a lumpy batter.
- Over-beating the batter after adding the eggs, which incorporates too much air and causes cracking.
- Over-swirling the cherry filling, which can cause it to sink and make the bars soggy.
- Skipping the full chilling time, resulting in messy, soft bars that don’t hold their shape.
- Not lining the pan with parchment paper, making it extremely difficult to remove the bars cleanly.
Conclusion
These Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are a stunning and delicious dessert that masterfully combines creamy, tart, and nutty flavors. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a professional-quality treat perfect for any occasion. The make-ahead nature and elegant presentation make them a reliable favorite. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe.