Description
Summer desserts reach new heights with this lemon-lime cherry pistachio cheesecake, blending tangy citrus notes and sweet cherry richness. Cool creamy layers and crunchy pistachio crumble create a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired treat perfect for sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) melted butter
- 3 tablespoons sugar
Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages (8 ounces/226 grams each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lime
Topping:
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 325F (163C) and coat a 9-inch springform pan with grease to ensure easy removal.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl, creating a cohesive mixture that will form the cheesecake’s foundation. Press firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating an even base.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough integration after each addition.
- Infuse the cheesecake batter with vibrant citrus notes by gently folding in lemon juice, lime juice, and their respective zests. Maintain a smooth texture while blending these tangy elements.
- Carefully transfer the prepared batter into the crust-lined springform pan, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, watching for a slightly jiggly center that indicates perfect doneness. Remove from oven and allow initial cooling on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- Run a sharp knife delicately around the pan’s inner edge to prevent cracking, then let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve optimal setting and flavor development.
- Just before serving, artfully spread cherry pie filling across the top, creating a vibrant, glossy surface. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped pistachios for textural contrast and visual appeal.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing to achieve a silky cheesecake texture.
- Use fresh citrus fruits for maximum zesty flavor and vibrant aroma that elevates the entire dessert.
- Prevent cheesecake cracking by avoiding overmixing and baking in a water bath for gentle, even heat distribution.
- Customize dietary needs by substituting graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives or using low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 368 kcal
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg