Description
Tangy lemon cheesecake bars layered over a buttery pistachio crust — a bright, elegant dessert perfect for spring or any celebration.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup pistachios, finely ground
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: Combine the finely ground pistachios, graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to set.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate until ready to slice into 9 bars for serving.
Notes
- Garnish with chopped pistachios or candied lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
- Store the cheesecake bars in the refrigerator, chilled, for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
