Description
Indulgent “Luscious Lemon Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake” brings Mediterranean zest to classic dessert traditions. Creamy layers of tangy citrus and sweet cherries nestle between nutty pistachio crumbles, inviting dessert enthusiasts to savor each luxurious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (453 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) chopped cherries
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) chopped pistachios
Sweeteners and Flavorings:
- 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lime
Binding and Crust Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F, ensuring a consistent temperature for baking.
- Create a robust crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter, then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Craft the creamy filling by thoroughly blending cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, gradually incorporating eggs while maintaining a uniform texture.
- Enhance the filling’s flavor profile by gently folding in vanilla extract, vibrant lemon zest, and tangy lime zest for a citrusy dimension.
- Transfer the velvety cream cheese mixture onto the prepared crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Artfully scatter chopped pistachios and cherries across the surface, creating a visually appealing and textural topping.
- Bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes, watching for a slightly wobbly center that indicates perfect doneness.
- Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, preventing potential cracking.
- Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours, or ideally overnight, to achieve optimal set and flavor melding.
Notes
- Butter the springform pan’s sides to prevent the cheesecake from sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing, creating a smoother, lump-free batter with better texture.
- Wrap the springform pan’s exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage during baking and protect the delicate crust from burning.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 338 kcal
- Sugar: 23 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg