Description

A rich, velvety cheesecake bursting with the zing of lemon and lime, topped with sweet cherries and crunchy pistachios. The perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy, this dessert is a showstopper for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
½ cup (60g) finely chopped pistachios
⅓ cup (75g) melted butter
2 tbsp sugar

For the Filling:

24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (200g) sugar
3 large eggs
½ cup (120ml) sour cream
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp / 30ml)
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp / 30ml)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup (120ml) pistachio paste (optional)
¾ cup (150g) chopped cherries

For the Topping:

1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup (120g) cherry compote
Extra pistachios & fresh cherries for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

2️⃣ Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in sour cream, lemon zest, lime zest, citrus juices, and vanilla. Fold in pistachio paste (if using) and chopped cherries.

3️⃣ Bake: Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the edges are set, but the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour, then cool at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

4️⃣ Prepare the Topping: Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over the cheesecake. Drizzle cherry compote and garnish with fresh cherries and chopped pistachios.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Slice and enjoy this tangy, nutty, and creamy delight!

Notes

1️⃣ Prevent Cracks: Bake at a low temperature and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven for an hour before removing it. This helps prevent cracking on the surface.

2️⃣ Chill for Best Texture: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to set perfectly.

3️⃣ Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and creates a smooth, creamy filling.

Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 60 min