Lemon Lime Cherry Pistachio (Print Version)

Bright citrus and sweet cherries blend with pistachios in a creamy, chilled cheesecake with a buttery crust.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

04 - 680 grams (24 oz) cream cheese, softened
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
10 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
11 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
12 - 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
13 - 1/2 cup chopped cherries

→ Topping

14 - Whipped cream for garnish
15 - Whole cherries for garnish
16 - Chopped pistachios for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure easy removal.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until mixture resembles damp sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.
03 - Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and lump-free. Incorporate vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon and lime juice along with their zests. Gently fold in chopped pistachios and cherries.
04 - Pour filling over cooled crust and smooth the surface. Tap pan lightly to remove air bubbles. Bake for 55 minutes, until outer edges are set and center has a slight jiggle.
05 - Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
06 - Run a knife around the edge to loosen cheesecake before removing the springform ring. Decorate with whipped cream, whole cherries, and chopped pistachios. Slice with a clean, sharp knife, wiping between cuts for neat presentation.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Allow dairy ingredients to reach room temperature for a smoother filling. Slow cooling in the oven helps reduce cracking. Chilling overnight improves texture and slicing.