Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Bars (Print-Friendly Version)

Tangy lemon and lime, cherry swirl, and pistachios blend in creamy cheesecake bars with a crisp graham crust.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 180 grams graham cracker crumbs
02 - 50 grams granulated sugar
03 - 115 grams unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 900 grams cream cheese, softened
05 - 200 grams granulated sugar
06 - 4 large eggs
07 - 240 grams sour cream
08 - 60 millilitres heavy cream
09 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
10 - 2 tablespoons lime juice
11 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
12 - 1 teaspoon lime zest

→ Cherry Swirl

13 - 250 grams cherry preserves or jam
14 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

→ Garnish

15 - 30 grams pistachios, chopped

# How to Prepare:

01 - Preheat oven to 163°C. Line a 23x33 cm baking dish with parchment paper, allowing excess to overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate sour cream, heavy cream, lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest until the mixture is fully combined.
04 - Spread cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the centre is set and the edges are pale golden. Turn off the oven and allow to cool for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
05 - In a small saucepan, combine cherry preserves with lemon juice. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until smooth and fluid. Spoon the cherry mixture over the cooled cheesecake and use a knife or toothpick to create a swirl pattern.
06 - Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly on top.
07 - Slice into individual bars and serve chilled.

# Additional Information:

01 - Gradual cooling in the oven prevents cracking and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
02 - For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped with a damp cloth between cuts.