Description
These lilikoi cheesecake bars are the perfect tropical treat, featuring a smooth, creamy passion fruit cheesecake filling on top of a buttery macadamia shortbread crust. Bursting with bright, citrusy lilikoi (Hawaiian passion fruit) flavor, this dessert is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet. Perfect for special occasions, summer gatherings, or when you’re craving a taste of the islands, this healthy homemade recipe is sure to impress! Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas or a tropical-inspired dessert, these bars will be a hit.
Ingredients
Units
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Macadamia Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup macadamia nuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Lilikoi Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lilikoi (passion fruit) juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Lilikoi Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup lilikoi juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
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Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix macadamia nuts, flour, sugar, salt, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
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Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add lilikoi juice, eggs, vanilla, and cornstarch, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set. Let cool completely.
-
Prepare the Lilikoi Glaze (Optional):
- In a saucepan, whisk lilikoi juice and sugar over medium heat.
- Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the juice mixture. Cook until thickened.
- Let the glaze cool slightly before spreading over the cheesecake bars.
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Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing into bars.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger lilikoi flavor, add more passion fruit juice to the filling.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If fresh lilikoi juice isn’t available, use frozen or bottled passion fruit juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg