Sweet & Tangy Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

Sweet dreams come alive with this mind-blowing lemon-lime cherry pistachio cheesecake that dances between tangy and creamy.

Unexpected flavor combinations create magic in every delectable slice.

Velvety cream cheese melds perfectly with zesty citrus notes.

Vibrant cherries add a burst of color and excitement to this dessert adventure.

Delicate pistachios crunch through smooth layers, offering surprising texture contrasts.

Those who love complex desserts will absolutely adore this innovative treat.

You can wow guests with this show-stopping recipe that feels both elegant and playful.

Prepare to experience a dessert that defies traditional expectations and delights the senses.

Pro Tips for Pistachio Cherry Cheesecake Bliss

• Prevent Cracking Crust: Create a smooth, crack-free cheesecake by avoiding overmixing the batter and baking in a water bath to maintain even temperature.
• Zest Boost Technique: Maximize citrus flavor by using fresh lemon and lime zest, gently rubbing the zest into sugar to release essential oils before mixing into the batter.
• Water Bath Mastery: Wrap the springform pan's exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping into the delicate crust during the baking process.
• Softening Cream Cheese Hack: Allow cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free filling that blends smoothly.
• Garnish Like a Pro: For an elegant presentation, arrange chopped pistachios in a decorative pattern around the cherry topping, creating visual appeal and adding a delightful crunch.

Keep Pistachio Cherry Cheesecake Ready to Go

• Store the cheesecake covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it on a flat surface to maintain its shape.
• Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds at 50% power. Avoid overheating to prevent the texture from becoming rubbery.
• For best flavor and texture, enjoy the cheesecake straight from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

What Pairs with Pistachio Cheesecake Desserts

• Select a crisp, medium-bodied Chardonnay with subtle oak notes to complement the lemon-lime tang and creamy cheesecake richness.
• Pair a slightly sweet Riesling that balances the cheesecake's tartness and enhances the cherry and pistachio flavors with its fruity undertones.
• Serve a smooth, chilled cold brew coffee to cut through the dessert's richness and provide a robust counterpoint to the sweet and tangy cheesecake.
• Choose a light, bubbly Moscato d'Asti to highlight the dessert's brightness and add a playful effervescence that dances with the citrus and cherry notes.

Flavor Variations for Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

Gluten-Free Cherry Pistachio Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use certified gluten-free ingredients to ensure safe consumption for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegan Citrus Cheesecake Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use silken tofu or aquafaba instead of eggs. Replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

Low-Sugar Cherry Pistachio Option: Swap regular sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Reduce overall sugar content by using a sugar-free cherry topping. Choose low-fat cream cheese to create a lighter dessert option.

No-Bake Chilled Version: Skip the baking process entirely. Use gelatin or agar-agar to set the cheesecake. Chill in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours until firm. This method works great for those wanting a quicker, cooler dessert preparation.

Why This Pistachio Cheesecake Is One-of-a-Kind

• Elevate your baking skills with this stunning cheesecake that looks professionally made but requires minimal technical expertise.
• Combine zesty citrus notes with sweet cherries and nutty pistachios, creating a complex taste profile that delights every single bite.
• Perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or potlucks where you want to wow guests with a showstopping dessert that serves multiple people.
• Prepare this cheesecake a day in advance, allowing stress-free entertaining and giving flavors time to meld beautifully in the refrigerator overnight.

Ingredients for Pistachio Cherry Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs, Pistachios: Provides a crunchy, nutty base with sweet and earthy flavors, classic cheesecake foundation.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust, helps with binding.
• Butter: Melted butter helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich texture.

• Cream Cheese: Smooth, rich base for cheesecake, creates creamy texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances tangy cream cheese.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help set the cheesecake.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a smooth, soft texture.
• Flour: Helps stabilize the filling and prevent cracking.
• Lemon Juice, Lime Juice: Bright, citrusy flavor that adds zesty notes.
• Lemon Zest, Lime Zest: Intensifies citrus flavor with aromatic oils.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet undertones.

• Cherry Pie Filling: Sweet, fruity topping that adds color and moisture.
• Pistachios: Crunchy garnish that provides texture and nutty flavor.

How to Bake Lemon-Lime Pistachio Cheesecake Smoothly

Step 1: Prepare Crust Foundation

Mix graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, sugar, and melted butter until perfectly blended. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350F for 10 minutes, creating a golden crispy base. Let the crust cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Filling

• Sour cream
• Flour
• Lemon juice
• Lime juice
• Lemon zest
• Lime zest
• Vanilla extract

Mix until ingredients are just combined, maintaining a luxurious texture.

Step 3: Bake With Water Bath Technique

Pour filling over cooled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Fill roasting pan with hot water halfway up the cheesecake pan’s sides. Bake for 60-70 minutes until edges set and center remains slightly wobbly.

Step 4: Gentle Cooling Process

Turn off oven, leaving cheesecake inside with door slightly open for one hour. This gradual cooling prevents cracking. Remove from water bath and refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Decorate With Flair

Spread cherry pie filling evenly across cheesecake surface. Sprinkle chopped pistachios for delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Step 6: Slice And Serve

Carefully release springform pan. Cut into elegant slices and serve chilled, delighting guests with tangy-sweet flavors.

Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 10 to 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy lemon-lime cherry pistachio cheesecake dances with tangy and sweet Mediterranean flavors. Rich layers of nutty pistachios and bright cherries create a delightful dessert experience you’ll savor with pure culinary joy.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (150 g / 5.3 ounces) graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup (30 g / 1.1 ounces) finely chopped pistachios
• ¼ cup (60 g / 2.1 ounces) granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (85 g / 3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted

Filling Ingredients:

• 3 (8 oz / 227 g) blocks cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200 g / 7.1 ounces) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml / 4 fluid ounces) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 ml / 8.5 fluid ounces) cherry pie filling
• ¼ cup (30 g / 1.1 ounces) chopped pistachios

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft a sturdy foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pistachios, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a greased 9-inch springform pan, creating an even, compact layer.
2. Briefly toast the crust in a preheated 350F (175C) oven for 10 minutes, allowing it to develop a golden, fragrant character. Set aside to cool completely.
3. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough integration after each addition.
4. Gently fold in sour cream, flour, freshly squeezed lemon and lime juices, citrus zests, and vanilla extract. Mix until ingredients are harmoniously blended, avoiding overmixing.
5. Transfer the creamy filling onto the cooled crust, using a spatula to create a smooth, uniform surface. Carefully place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan filled with hot water, creating a gentle water bath.
6. Slide the cheesecake into the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. The ideal doneness is characterized by set edges and a subtle jiggle in the center.
7. After baking, switch off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar, allowing it to cool gradually and prevent cracking.
8. Remove from the water bath and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve optimal texture and flavor melding.
9. Just before serving, generously spread cherry pie filling across the surface. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
10. Carefully release the springform pan, slice the cheesecake into elegant portions, and serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

• Master water bath technique by ensuring hot water comes halfway up the springform pan, preventing cracks and ensuring smooth, creamy texture.
• Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for celiac-friendly version.
• Control zesty citrus intensity by adjusting lemon and lime juice quantities to suit personal taste preferences, creating balanced flavor profile.
• Prevent cheesecake surface cracking by avoiding overmixing ingredients and allowing gradual cooling process with oven door slightly open.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10 to 12
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 34 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg