Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing and Unique Flavor: The combination of lemon, lime, cherries, and pistachios creates a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
• Creamy and Decadent: A rich and smooth cheesecake texture with bursts of fruit and crunch in every bite.
• Beautiful Presentation: Topped with whipped cream, whole cherries, and pistachios for an elegant finish.
• Versatile Options: Easily adapted to gluten-free or dairy-free diets with simple substitutions.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• ½ cup chopped pistachios
• ½ cup chopped cherries
• Whipped cream, for topping
• Whole cherries and chopped pistachios, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust
   • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
   • In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter until combined.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
   • Stir in the lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest, mixing well.
3. Add Mix-Ins and Bake
   • Fold in the chopped pistachios and cherries to evenly distribute throughout the batter.
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
4. Cool and Chill
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open to prevent cracking.
   • Once at room temperature, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
5. Garnish and Serve
   • Before serving, top with whipped cream, whole cherries, and chopped pistachios.
   • Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 12 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
• Calories: 410 kcal per serving

Variations

1. Gluten-Free Version:
   • Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.
2. Dairy-Free Alternative:
   • Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter for a lactose-free version.
3. Extra Fruity Cheesecake:
   • Add ½ cup of crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
4. Chocolate Drizzle:
   • Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top before serving for an added touch of decadence.
5. No-Bake Version:
   • Skip baking and use a no-bake crust (crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter). Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or until firm.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Not needed, as cheesecake is best served cold!

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! It’s actually best made a day in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

• Don’t overmix the batter.
• Bake at low heat (325°F) to prevent overcooking.
• Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open to avoid sudden temperature changes.

Can I use bottled lemon and lime juice instead of fresh?

Fresh is best, but bottled juice works in a pinch. You may need to adjust the amount slightly to match the intensity of fresh juice.

Do I need a water bath for this cheesecake?

No, but if you prefer a softer texture, you can place a pan of hot water on the oven rack below the cheesecake while baking.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between cuts for smooth slices.

Conclusion

Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a delightfully refreshing and indulgent dessert that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy every luscious bite!

---

Print