Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

this Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s vibrant, tangy, and totally unforgettable, these Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars might just be your new go-to. I’m so glad you’ve landed here—thank you! Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a summer picnic, or just craving something that pops with flavor and texture, this recipe checks every box. Sweet, zesty, creamy, and delightfully nutty? Yes, please!

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Why You’ll Love These Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Imagine this: a buttery pistachio shortbread crust, a luscious lemon-lime cheesecake layer, and bursts of tart cherries throughout. It’s like your favorite citrusy dessert met a creamy cheesecake and invited crunchy pistachios to the party. These bars are anything but boring!!

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Zesty and sweet: The lemon and lime balance perfectly with the cherries’ tartness
• Texture heaven: Creamy cheesecake, nutty crunch, and soft cherries
• Pretty enough to impress: The color contrast is beautiful and totally photo-worthy
• Portable and sliceable: Perfect for potlucks, lunches, or a sweet snack with your afternoon tea

What Do Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars Taste Like?

They’re a bright, zingy dream. The citrus brings that clean, fresh flavor, while the cherries add juicy bursts of fruitiness. The pistachio crust? It’s the rich, nutty base that ties it all together. Each bite is creamy, with a little chew from the fruit and crunch from the nuts. Heaven.

Healthier Indulgence

With fresh fruit and nuts, these bars feel a bit more wholesome than your average dessert. You can even lighten the cream cheese if you’d like, and they’ll still turn out amazing.

Ingredients for Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

For the crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup shelled pistachios (unsalted, finely chopped)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the cheesecake filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon and 1 lime
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the fruit swirl:

• 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen cherries (pitted and roughly chopped)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan
• Food processor (optional, for crust)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Zester
• Saucepan (for cherry mixture)
• Parchment paper

Optional Additions and Substitutions

• No pistachios? Use almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile
• Cherries out of season? Frozen work great, or try raspberries or blackberries
• Want extra tang? Add more zest, or use a bit of Greek yogurt in the filling
• Gluten-free? Use a GF flour blend in the crust

How to Make Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your pan with parchment paper. In a bowl (or food processor), combine flour, chopped pistachios, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Swirl

In a small saucepan, heat chopped cherries with sugar and cornstarch over medium heat until bubbling and slightly thickened. Let it cool a bit while you make the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in zest, juices, and vanilla. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

Step 4: Swirl It

Drop spoonfuls of the cherry mixture over the cheesecake. Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl it into the batter. Don’t overmix—swirls look better!

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best!).

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Lift the bars out using the parchment, slice into squares, and admire those gorgeous swirls before diving in.

What to Serve With These Cheesecake Bars

These bars shine on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with:

• A dollop of whipped cream
• A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Iced tea, lemonade, or a citrusy cocktail

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling
• Cool completely before slicing to avoid a gooey mess
• Swirl gently so you don’t muddle the pretty cherry patterns
• Line your pan well—it makes removing and slicing so much easier

Storing the Cheesecake Bars

Keep bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them! Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQ – Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better the next day after chilling overnight.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a 9×13-inch pan and bake a little longer (start checking around 40 minutes).

What kind of cherries should I use?

Fresh, frozen, or jarred tart cherries work beautifully. Just avoid canned cherry pie filling—it’s too sweet and gloopy.

Can I make this without nuts?

Yes—just swap the crust for a graham cracker or shortbread base instead.

Final Thoughts: A Zesty Twist on Classic Cheesecake

There’s something magical about how lemon and lime brighten up a dessert, and these bars do it with flair. Add cherries and pistachios, and you’ve got a treat that’s not just beautiful but unforgettable. Whether you’re sharing with guests or sneaking a bite for yourself (no judgment!), these cheesecake bars are the sweet spot between indulgence and refreshment.

Craving more fruity bakes? You’ll love these too:

• Luxurious Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
• Summer Toast Recipes You’ll Love
• Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Share the Love!

Did you make these Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Bars? I’d LOVE to see your creation! Tag your photos with @recipedunep on Pinterest or drop a review below. Your feedback makes this kitchen-loving heart so happy.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving — based on 16 bars)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g

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