Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Combine ground pistachios, flour, and sugar in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Topping
In a small bowl, mix the cherry preserves with almond extract. Drop spoonfuls of the cherry mixture onto the cheesecake layer and use a knife to create gentle swirls.

Step 4: Bake and Chill
Bake the bars for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares, garnish with chopped pistachios if desired, and serve chilled.