Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Sure! Here is a recipe for Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars:

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract

Topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• ½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake layer.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.

Add the Topping:

1. Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
2. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the cherry pie filling.

Serve:

1. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan.
2. Cut into bars and serve. Enjoy!

These Heavenly Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!