Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

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Here’s a recipe for Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake, a stunning dessert that combines tangy citrus flavors with creamy cheesecake and crunchy pistachios, topped off with a sweet cherry layer. It’s a unique and delicious twist on traditional cheesecake!

Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup pistachios, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • ½ cup sour cream
For the Cherry Topping:
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for thickening)
For Garnish:
  • Chopped pistachios
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust:
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well-coated.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest until fully incorporated.
  4. Fold in the sour cream for a smooth and creamy texture.
  5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
  6. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Make the Cherry Topping:
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the cherries release their juice.
  2. If you want a thicker topping, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the cherry mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and let the cherry topping cool completely.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
  1. Once the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer to a serving platter.
  2. Spoon the cherry topping evenly over the cheesecake.
  3. Garnish with chopped pistachios and fresh mint leaves if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • For a smoother texture, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
  • The cherry topping can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
  • If you prefer a thicker crust, add more graham cracker crumbs or pistachios.

This Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake combines bright, citrusy flavors with the creamy richness of cheesecake, a crunchy pistachio crust, and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests!

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