Cranberry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Cranberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Garnish:

• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream until just combined.
4. Spread Over Crust: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.

Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Cool: Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Cranberry Topping:

1. Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries begin to burst, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Thicken Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and continue cooking until the topping thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Assemble and Serve:

1. Top Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has set, spread the cooled cranberry topping evenly over the top.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the cranberry topping for added crunch and flavor.
3. Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the baking dish. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

Conclusion

These cranberry pistachio cheesecake bars combine a buttery pistachio crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a tart cranberry topping, creating a deliciously unique dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, these bars are sure to impress your guests with their beautiful presentation and delectable taste.