Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake 🍋🍒💚

Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake 🍋🍒💚
If you’re searching for a dessert that is both refreshing and rich, look no further! The Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is the perfect balance of creamy textures and zesty flavors. This vibrant cheesecake pairs the tartness of lemon and lime with the sweetness of cherries, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with whipped cream and garnished with lush nuts and fruits, this cheesecake is bound to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.
Why Make This Recipe
This cheesecake stands out from traditional flavors with its citrusy kick and delightful crunch from pistachios. The contrast between creamy and zesty makes it a fantastic treat for special occasions, summer barbecues, or whenever you’re craving something unique. It’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a beautiful centerpiece for any dessert table.
How to Make Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup chopped cherries
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Whole cherries and chopped pistachios, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest until the mixture is smooth. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and cherries.
- Pour the batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is almost set.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream, whole cherries, and chopped pistachios.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes (including cooling and chilling time)
Calories: 450 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
How to Serve Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
Serve this cheesecake chilled for the best flavor. Cut generous slices and add a swirl of whipped cream on top. You can also add a few whole cherries and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for a lovely decorative touch. This fruity dessert pairs wonderfully with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade!
How to Store Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
Keep any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to store it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Tips to Make Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for an easy mixing process.
- Make use of fresh lemon and lime juice for the best flavor.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracks.
Variation
For a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs. You can also swap in different fruits, like blueberries or strawberries, to suit your taste.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon and lime juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh juice gives the best flavor.
What can I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Make sure to cool it gradually in the oven and consider using a water bath for baking.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s great to make a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.