Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
A vibrant dessert combining citrus zing, sweet cherries, and crunchy pistachios, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Creates a crunchy, buttery crust.
- 0.25 cups melted butter Adds richness and binds the crust.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 1.5 cups cream cheese, softened Smooth, creamy base.
- 1 cups mascarpone cheese Enhances creaminess.
- 0.5 cups powdered sugar Sweetens without weighting down.
- 0.25 cups sour cream Adds a subtle tang.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Provides a zesty punch.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Adds refreshing citrus flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Increases aromatic citrus notes.
- 1 tablespoon lime zest Enhances overall flavor profile.
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses warm flavor.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream Adds light and airy texture.
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved Provides juicy sweetness.
- 0.25 cups pistachios, chopped Adds nutty crunch.
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for the cherries) Enhances sweetness and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, mascarpone, powdered sugar, sour cream, lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, lime juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible to allow it to set.
Topping
- In a small saucepan, combine fresh cherries and sugar over low heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until cherries soften and release their juices.
- Let the cherry syrup cool at room temperature.
- Once cheesecake is set, top with cherry syrup and sprinkle chopped pistachios over it.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese and mascarpone are at room temperature for a smooth texture. Adjust sugar in cherry topping based on sweetness. For clean slices, dip knife in hot water before cutting.