Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

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This decadent cheesecake combines the tangy brightness of lemon and lime with the richness of cream cheese, the crunch of pistachios, and the sweetness of cherry topping. It’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion. Follow this detailed recipe to create a cheesecake that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Table of Contents

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For the Pistachio Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup crushed pistachios

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pistachios, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  2. Press the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a firm and even base. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it down.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
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Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Mix the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and beat until well combined.
  2. Add Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: Add the sour cream and heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture and mix until smooth.
  3. Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined.
  4. Add Flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, lime juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan.
  2. Pour the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  3. Create a Water Bath: Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan around the cheesecake pan, coming about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
  4. Bake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour.

Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake

  1. Refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cherry Topping

  1. Cook the Cherries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and start to simmer.
  2. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
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Step 7: Assemble and Garnish

  1. Top the Cheesecake: Spread the cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle the crushed pistachios around the edges or over the top of the cherry topping.

Step 8: Serve

  1. Release the Cheesecake: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
  2. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve. Enjoy the rich and tangy flavors with the sweet cherry topping and crunchy pistachio garnish.

Tips and Variations

  • Cherry Variation: You can use other fruits like raspberries or blueberries if you prefer a different topping.
  • Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
  • Extra Creaminess: For a creamier texture, increase the sour cream by 1/2 cup.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (about 1/12 of the cheesecake) provides approximately:

  • Calories: 430
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 300mg

Conclusion

This Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines tangy citrus flavors, creamy cheesecake, and a sweet cherry topping. The addition of pistachios adds a delightful crunch, making this dessert both visually stunning and delicious. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every bite of this decadent and flavorful dessert!

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