These Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars offer a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, sweet cherry topping, and crunchy pistachios, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. This indulgent treat is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining rich flavors and delightful textures that everyone will love.

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream until fully combined.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set.
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely. Once cooled, spread the cherry pie filling over the top and sprinkle with chopped pistachios.
Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 3 hours before cutting them into bars. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

Fruit Topping: You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit toppings like blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry for a different flavor twist.
Nut Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of pistachios, try using crushed almonds, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for a similar crunch.
Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar for a lower-calorie version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: These cheesecake bars can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: These bars are meant to be served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Just remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

10 FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust? Yes, you can experiment with other crusts, such as crushed Oreos, shortbread cookies, or even a chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor base.
Can I use non-dairy cream cheese? Yes, non-dairy cream cheese works as a substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How can I make these bars gluten-free? Use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free crumb option to make the crust.
Can I make the cheesecake bars in advance? Yes, you can prepare these cheesecake bars a day ahead. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I use if I don’t have sour cream? Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream. It will provide a similar creamy texture.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling? Yes, you can use fresh cherries by cooking them down with some sugar to create your own topping, though it might be less sweet than canned pie filling.
Can I make these bars without pistachios? Yes, you can omit the pistachios if you prefer or substitute them with another type of nut or even chocolate chips.
How do I ensure the cheesecake is set properly? Be sure to bake the cheesecake until it’s mostly set, with a slight wobble in the center. If the edges are too brown, lower the temperature and bake a bit longer.
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars? Yes, you can freeze the bars after they’ve fully cooled. Just ensure they’re properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Can I use a different size pan? If using a different size pan, be sure to adjust the baking time. A larger pan will require a shorter baking time, and a smaller pan will need a little more time.

Conclusion

These Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are a decadent treat, with layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet cherry filling, and crunchy pistachios on a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dessert craving, these bars are sure to impress. Easy to make and full of flavor, they’re a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a texture that’s simply irresistible. Enjoy every bite!