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Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

The Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a bright and refreshing dessert that expertly combines tangy lemon and lime flavors with sweet cherries and crunchy pistachios. Featuring a smooth, creamy texture anchored by a buttery graham cracker crust, this visually stunning cheesecake is perfect for celebrations or any special occasion. It’s easily customizable and offers a delightful balance of zest, sweetness, and nutty richness.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh or thawed cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and refrigerate to set while preparing the filling.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, mixing well. Blend in eggs one at a time. Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon and lime zest, and fresh juices until creamy and fully combined.
  3. Fold in Cherries and Pistachios: Gently fold fresh or thawed cherries and chopped pistachios into the cheesecake batter, ensuring even distribution without breaking the cherries too much.
  4. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken.
  5. Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Do not overmix the filling to avoid incorporating too much air and potential cracking.
  • For extra creamy, crack-free cheesecake, bake using a water bath by wrapping the springform pan in foil and placing it in a larger pan filled with hot water.
  • Chill the cheesecake thoroughly to help flavors meld and ensure perfect slicing.
  • Use freshly grated lemon and lime zest to maximize citrus aroma and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake, lemon lime cheesecake, cherry pistachio cheesecake, citrus dessert, gluten free cheesecake, summer dessert