Christmas Cookies – Day 11

Lime Cheesecake Bars

1 Cup finely crushed pretzel sticks
2 Tablespoons sugar
1/2 Cup butter, melted
2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
2/3 Cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lime peel
3 Tablespoons lime juice (regular or Key limes), bottled if necessary
1/4 cup chopped salted pistachios
slices of lime or lime peel to decorate, if desired

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9 x 13 pan.
Stir together crushed pretzels, 2 Tbs sugar and melted butter. Press into bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool on rack.
While crust is cooling, in mixer bowl combine the cream cheese, 2/3 cup sugar, and vanilla. Add eggs. Beat on low until combined. Stir in lime peel and juice. Sprinkle with pistachios.
Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until center appears set. Cool in pan on wire rack 30 minutes. Cover and chill overnight. Cut before serving. If desired, garnish with lime. Makes 15 to 20 bars. Store in refrigerator.