Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

Table of Contents

Bright, creamy, and dressed with jewel toned cherries and crunchy pistachios, this cheesecake is the kind of dessert that stops the scroll on Pinterest. The citrus lift from lemon and lime keeps the richness lively while a buttery graham crust provides a warm base. It’s approachable enough for a weekend bake yet elegant for guests. If you love nut forward desserts, you might enjoy the twist in Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake Supreme for more inspiration.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This cheesecake balances creamy and bright in a way that feels both celebratory and comforting. The recipe uses pantry friendly ingredients and straightforward steps, so home bakers can achieve a bakery worthy result without fuss. A generous layer of cherry pie filling adds color and a touch of sweetness that contrasts the tangy citrus in the filling. Chopped pistachios give texture and a luxe visual pop, making each slice photograph ready. If you enjoy playful cherry pairings, try exploring ideas like Boozy Cherry Bombs for cocktail style fun alongside dessert.

Flavor and Texture

Cream cheese gives the cake a velvety mouthfeel while the lemon and lime juices cut through the richness, creating a bright, balanced flavor profile. The graham crust offers tender crunch that grounds every forkful. Cherry pie filling brings juicy pockets of fruit and syrupy sweetness on top, which pairs beautifully with the slightly salty and crunchy pistachios. The citrus zests scattered over the finished cake provide aromatic highlights that make the dessert sing. Overall the textures move from crisp crust to silky filling to crunchy topping for a pleasing contrast in every bite.

Ingredients

* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup sugar
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 1/4 cup lime juice
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 4 large eggs
* 1 cup cherry pie filling
* 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
* Zest of 1 lemon
* Zest of 1 lime

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, lime juice, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and bake for about 50 minutes, until the center is set.
5. Let it cool, then spread cherry pie filling on top.
6. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and lemon/lime zests.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Bring cream cheese to room temperature before you start so the filling blends silky smooth without lumps. Press the crust firmly and evenly to avoid a crumbly base when slicing. Bake the cheesecake in the middle of the oven and avoid opening the door during baking to prevent cracking. Cooling slowly helps prevent surface splits so allow it to reach room temperature before chilling. For sharp citrus notes, zest just before serving so the aroma is brightest.

Storage and Make Ahead

This cheesecake keeps well chilled for up to five days in an airtight container, making it ideal to prepare a day ahead. You can bake and refrigerate without the cherry topping, then add the filling and pistachios just before serving for maximum freshness. For longer storage freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to one month and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Always keep chilled until about 15 minutes before serving for best texture.

Final Thought

This lemon lime cherry pistachio cheesecake is a showstopper that still feels homey and inviting. The contrast of bright citrus, sweet cherries, and nutty pistachios creates a dessert that’s memorable and photo worthy. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or when you want a slice of sunshine on the dessert table.

Conclusion

For the full original recipe and step visuals visit Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake to follow along with the exact measurements and tips.

FAQ

Print