Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
A Dreamy Dessert with Citrus Zing and Cherry Swirl
Introduction
Take your cheesecake game to the next level with this Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake. This gorgeous dessert is as elegant as it is flavorful, with a zesty citrus base, a swirl of cherry puree, and a nutty pistachio crunch on top. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something fresh and fruity, this cheesecake is a showstopper.
Why I Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average cheesecake. The creamy filling gets a bright lift from fresh lemon and lime juice, while cherry puree swirls through each slice for a burst of color and flavor. The graham cracker crust with pistachios adds a satisfying crunch, and the cherry topping with halved cherries and preserves takes it over the top.
If you love desserts that are rich but balanced with fruit and texture, this one’s for you.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup cherry puree (fresh or frozen cherries blended and strained)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup cherry preserves or jam
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and chopped pistachios. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then cool completely.
2. Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add sugar and beat until fully combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice, lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
Gently swirl in the cherry puree with a spatula or knife to create a marbled effect.
3. Bake
Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Make the Topping
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the cherry halves and preserves. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring gently, until thickened. Let cool completely.
5. Assemble and Serve
Spread or spoon the cherry topping over the chilled cheesecake. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios just before serving for extra crunch and color.
Tips for Success
- Use a water bath for ultra-smooth cheesecake texture.
- Let all ingredients come to room temperature for a creamier filling.
- Don’t overmix after adding eggs—this keeps the filling from cracking.
- Try other fruit purees like raspberry or blueberry if you want to mix it up.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dessert is perfect for:
- Spring or summer parties
- Elegant dinners and holiday spreads
- Pairing with a refreshing drink like Blueberry Lemonade
And if you’re into more creative or easy-bake desserts, try these:
- Pumpkin Delight Dessert – great no-bake option
- Oreo Cream Pie – a chocolatey crowd-pleaser
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – for when you want over-the-top indulgence
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies – perfect for fall
- Easy Coconut Macaroons – quick and chewy delight
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered.
- Freezer: Freeze slices (without topping) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly.
- Serving Tip: Add topping fresh before serving for best texture.
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Final Thoughts
This Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is vibrant, rich, and guaranteed to steal the spotlight. It brings together fresh citrus, creamy cheesecake, tart cherries, and crunchy pistachios in every bite—a dessert that’s equal parts stunning and satisfying.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and show us your masterpiece! Follow for more creative bakes, bold flavors, and beautiful desserts that make you feel like a pro baker—without the stress.
Stay luscious,
Jason Griffith – ChefManiac.com
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