These Pistachio Cheesecake Bars are one of my all-time favorites. They’re rich, creamy, and that soft green color always makes them look special. The flavor is so smooth with just the right hint of nutty sweetness.

I love how easy they are to make. No need for a full cheesecake—just bake, chill, and slice into perfect little squares. They’re always the first to disappear when I share them.

If you’re a pistachio lover like me, these bars are a dream. They’re elegant enough for parties but simple enough for a cozy night at home. Let’s make something sweet and beautiful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Flavor Fusion: The mix of pistachios, cream cheese, and milk chocolate creates a unique and indulgent flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
Make-Ahead Dessert: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them perfect for busy weeks or events.
Smooth & Creamy: The pistachio cheesecake filling is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a buttery, lightly spiced crust.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit.
Versatile Garnishing: You can top these bars with extra pistachios, chocolate shavings, or even a dollop of whipped cream for added texture and flavor.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you dive into this pistachio-packed dessert, make sure you have the following kitchen tools to make the process smoother:

Mixing Bowls (for the crust and filling)
Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer (for blending the cheesecake filling)
9×9-inch Baking Dish (for assembling the bars)
Parchment Paper (for lining the baking dish and easy removal of the bars)
Measuring Cups and Spoons (for precise measurements)
Rubber Spatula (to scrape down the sides of the bowl)
Medium Saucepan (for melting chocolate)

Ingredients

Here’s a rundown of everything you’ll need to make these rich, creamy pistachio cheesecake bars:

For the Crust:

2 cups digestive biscuit crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs) (250g) – The base of the cheesecake is made of crushed biscuits, providing a nice crunch and a slightly sweet flavor.
1/2 cup butter, melted (115g) – Butter binds the crumbs together and gives the crust a rich texture.
Pinch of cinnamon powder – This little touch of spice gives the crust a warm and cozy undertone.

For the Pistachio Cheesecake Filling:

1 cup pistachio powder (140g) – This is made from finely ground pistachios, which lend a nutty flavor to the cheesecake filling.
7 oz softened cream cheese (215g) – Cream cheese is the base of the cheesecake filling, adding richness and creaminess.
8 oz thick cream or table cream (250g) – This adds smoothness and a luxurious texture to the cheesecake.
7 oz sweetened condensed milk (200g) – Sweetened condensed milk balances the flavors and adds sweetness to the cheesecake filling.

For the Chocolate Topping:

1 cup milk chocolate chunks or coverture (170g) – A rich milk chocolate topping that melts beautifully and adds a luscious layer on top of the cheesecake bars.
Handful of sliced or crushed pistachios – These are used to garnish the bars, adding texture and enhancing the pistachio flavor.

Variations for Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Add Flavored Extracts: For an extra burst of flavor, you could incorporate a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract into the cheesecake filling. Almond and pistachio pair wonderfully together!
Use Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a richer, slightly less sweet flavor, substitute milk chocolate with dark chocolate for the topping.
Make It Nut-Free: Skip the pistachio powder in the filling and use a fruit purée, like raspberry or strawberry, to create a fruit-flavored cheesecake bar. You can also opt for a chocolate ganache topping instead.
Add a Crunchy Layer: Mix crushed pistachios into the cheesecake filling for an added crunch, or swirl some pistachio paste into the mixture for more depth.
Go Mini: Instead of using a large baking dish, make these cheesecake bars in a muffin tin or mini tart pans for individual-sized servings. You’ll have adorable, bite-sized treats!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Making these pistachio cheesecake bars is relatively simple, and the best part is that it doesn’t require baking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare these mouthwatering bars.

1. Prepare the Crust

The first step in making pistachio cheesecake bars is to prepare the crust. Follow these instructions:

Crush the Biscuits: Place your digestive biscuits or graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can also place the biscuits in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Mix with Butter and Cinnamon: In a medium bowl, combine the biscuit crumbs with the melted butter and a pinch of cinnamon powder. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Press into the Pan: Line your 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Then, press the biscuit mixture into the bottom of the dish to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a glass to press it down firmly.
Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you make the cheesecake filling. This helps the crust set and firm up.

2. Make the Pistachio Cheesecake Filling

Now, let’s make the creamy pistachio cheesecake filling:

Cream the Cream Cheese and Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer. Add the thick cream and continue mixing until fully combined and smooth.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix on low speed until it’s fully incorporated.
Incorporate Pistachio Powder: Add the pistachio powder to the mixture and beat until combined. This will give the filling its nutty flavor and rich green color.
Blend Until Smooth: Mix everything together until the cheesecake filling is smooth, fluffy, and well-combined.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

Now it’s time to assemble the cheesecake bars:

Spread the Filling: Pour the pistachio cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Use a rubber spatula to smooth it out and ensure an even layer.
Chill to Set: Place the dish back into the fridge and let the cheesecake set for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight if you have time. The filling should firm up to a creamy, sliceable consistency.

4. Prepare the Chocolate Topping

While the cheesecake sets, prepare the chocolate topping:

Melt the Chocolate: In a medium saucepan, gently melt the milk chocolate chunks over low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the chocolate. Once it’s completely melted and smooth, remove it from the heat.
Pour the Chocolate: Once the cheesecake is set, pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
Garnish with Pistachios: Sprinkle the top with sliced or crushed pistachios for a crunchy and visually appealing garnish.

5. Chill Again

Place the cheesecake bars back into the fridge and allow them to chill for another hour or so until the chocolate topping has firmed up.

6. Slice and Serve

Once everything is chilled and set, carefully slice the pistachio cheesecake into bars. You can use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled, and enjoy!

How to Serve Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Pistachio cheesecake bars are rich and decadent on their own, but they also pair well with several other flavors and textures. Here are some ways to serve them:

With Fresh Berries: Serve these cheesecake bars with a side of fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries to add a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
With Whipped Cream: Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra smoothness.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: These bars are excellent with a cup of coffee or tea. Try pairing them with a lightly roasted coffee or a calming green tea.
For Special Occasions: Serve these at your next party or family gathering for a show-stopping dessert that will wow your guests.

Storing Pistachio Cheesecake Bars

Refrigeration: These pistachio cheesecake bars should be kept in the fridge, especially since they contain dairy and cream. Store them in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze these cheesecake bars. After slicing, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Nutrition

Pistachio cheesecake bars are indulgent, and they’re best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition:

Nutrition Information	Per Serving
Calories	~300 kcal
Carbohydrates	~30g
Protein	~4g
Fat	~20g
Saturated Fat	~9g
Sugar	~15g
Fiber	~2g

Conclusion

Pistachio cheesecake bars are a wonderful blend of creamy, nutty, and chocolatey goodness. They’re perfect for making ahead of time, and with their rich texture and unique flavor, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just because you deserve a treat, these cheesecake bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

So, grab your ingredients and start making these mouthwatering pistachio cheesecake bars today. I can’t wait to hear how much you love them!