Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake


 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Zesty Citrus Kick – Bright lemon and lime juices add a refreshing tang to the creamy cheesecake.
  • Irresistible Flavor Combo – Sweet cherries and crunchy pistachios create the perfect balance of fruity and nutty goodness.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for preparing in advance and chilling until ready to serve.
  • Easily Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, citrus intensity, or toppings to match your taste.
  • Showstopper Dessert – A visually stunning centerpiece that’s as delicious as it looks.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (or digestive biscuits for a nuttier base)
  • ½ cup finely chopped pistachios
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
  • ¼ cup roughly chopped pistachios
  • Optional: Fresh mint leaves or extra citrus zest for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Crust

  1. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

  1. Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
  3. Stir in lemon and lime zest, juices, vanilla extract, and sour cream until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

  1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
  2. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
  3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.

Step 5: Chill

Refrigerate for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the cheesecake to fully set.

Step 6: Add the Toppings

  1. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
  2. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for crunch and color.
  3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra citrus zest, if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

✅ Perfect Citrus Balance – The lemon and lime add brightness without overwhelming the cheesecake.
✅ Pistachio Crunch – A nutty, earthy touch enhances the creamy texture.
✅ Cherry Topping – A sweet-tart contrast that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Enjoy this luscious cheesecake as the ultimate treat for any occasion! 🍋🍒✨