Description
This Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake combines a tangy citrus flavor with the crunch of pistachios and the sweetness of cherries. Set on a buttery graham cracker crust, this refreshing dessert is perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup chopped cherries
Topping
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Whole cherries and chopped pistachios, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure the cheesecake does not stick.
- Make Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next.
- Add Citrus Flavors and Mix-ins: Stir in fresh lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest. Beat the mixture until smooth, then gently fold in the chopped pistachios and cherries to distribute evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly to touch.
- Cool Down: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open. Let it cool like this for 1 hour to prevent cracking and promote even cooling.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the cheesecake with dollops of whipped cream, whole cherries, and additional chopped pistachios for an attractive and delicious presentation.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Using fresh lemon and lime juice and zest enhances the bright citrus flavor dramatically.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven minimizes cracks on the surface.
- For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.
- This cheesecake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake.
