Name: Irresistible Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients: Crust: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms the base of the bars, providing a crumbly texture and a hint of sweetness.; ¼ cup sugar: Added to sweetness and helps bind the crust together.; ½ cup melted butter: This combines with the crumbs to create a moist and flavorful crust, acting as the foundation for the filling.; Filling: 4 packs (8 oz) cream cheese: The main component of the filling, offering a rich and creamy texture.; 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the filling and complements the tangy flavors from the citrus juices.; 4 eggs: These provide structure and stability, helping the cheesecake set properly.; 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess, balancing the richness of cream cheese.; ¼ cup heavy cream: Enhances the richness of the filling, making it indulgent.; 2 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh acidity from the lemons adds brightness to several layers of flavor.; 2 tbsp lime juice: Similar to lemon, lime juice contributes a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the cherries.; Zest from 1 lemon & 1 lime: The zest adds concentrated flavor and aroma, elevating the citrus profile.; Cherry Swirl: 1 cup cherry preserves: Provides sweetness and a vibrant color that contrasts with the creamy filling.; 1 tbsp lemon juice: Balances the sweetness of the preserves and reinforces the citrus theme.; Garnish: ¼ cup chopped pistachios: Adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color, making the bars visually appealing while that nutty flavor complements the overall taste.

Description

Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars combine zesty citrus, sweet cherries, and crunchy pistachios in a creamy cheesecake base for a delightful dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms the base of the bars, providing a crumbly texture and a hint of sweetness.
- ¼ cup sugar: Added to sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
- ½ cup melted butter: This combines with the crumbs to create a moist and flavorful crust, acting as the foundation for the filling.
Filling:
- 4 packs (8 oz) cream cheese: The main component of the filling, offering a rich and creamy texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the filling and complements the tangy flavors from the citrus juices.
- 4 eggs: These provide structure and stability, helping the cheesecake set properly.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess, balancing the richness of cream cheese.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Enhances the richness of the filling, making it indulgent.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh acidity from the lemons adds brightness to several layers of flavor.
- 2 tbsp lime juice: Similar to lemon, lime juice contributes a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
- Zest from 1 lemon & 1 lime: The zest adds concentrated flavor and aroma, elevating the citrus profile.
Cherry Swirl:
- 1 cup cherry preserves: Provides sweetness and a vibrant color that contrasts with the creamy filling.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Balances the sweetness of the preserves and reinforces the citrus theme.
Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios: Adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color, making the bars visually appealing while that nutty flavor complements the overall taste.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven is heating, line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and ½ cup melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 packs (8 oz) cream cheese and 1 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add 4 eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 1 cup sour cream, ¼ cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp lime juice, zest from 1 lemon & 1 lime until everything is well blended and smooth.
Combine and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the pan. Ensure it is spread evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cheesecake should appear set with a slight jiggle in the center. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open; let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Prepare the Cherry Swirl: In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup cherry preserves and 1 tbsp lemon juice over low heat, stirring until smooth. Once the cheesecake has cooled, gently swirl this cherry mixture over the top for a beautiful and delicious topping.
Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. Before serving, sprinkle ¼ cup chopped pistachios on top for added texture and flavor.