Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a showstopping dessert that beautifully balances tart citrus, sweet cherries, and nutty pistachios in a creamy cheesecake base. Every bite offers a burst of bright flavor wrapped in rich, velvety cheesecake and finished with a buttery crust. The combination of lemon and lime creates a refreshing tang, the cherries add sweetness and color, while pistachios lend a subtle crunch and earthy balance. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or when you want a dessert that both dazzles the eye and delights the palate, this cheesecake is as unique as it is irresistible.
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Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and indulgent cheesecake infused with zesty lemon and lime, swirled with cherries, and topped with crunchy pistachios for a refreshing yet decadent dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries cooked down)
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
- Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, lime zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour half the batter into the crust. Add dollops of cherry filling and swirl gently with a knife. Repeat with remaining batter and more cherry filling.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Top with remaining cherry filling, chopped pistachios, and whipped cream if desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, mix some pistachios into the crust.
- Use fresh lemon and lime juice for the best flavor.
- Can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham cracker crumbs or pistachio cookie crumbs – Form the buttery crust.
Butter – Holds the crust together.
Sugar – Sweetens the crust and cheesecake filling.
Cream cheese – The rich and creamy base of the cheesecake.
Sour cream – Adds tang and smooth texture.
Eggs – Bind the filling and give it structure.
Lemon juice & zest – Provide brightness and tart citrus flavor.
Lime juice & zest – Add a refreshing, tangy contrast.
Vanilla extract – Balances the flavors in the filling.
Fresh or maraschino cherries – Add pops of sweetness and vibrant color.
Chopped pistachios – Provide crunch and a nutty layer of flavor.
Whipped cream (optional) – For garnish and an elegant finish.
Directions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a springform pan and wrap the outside with foil to prevent leaks if using a water bath.
For the crust, mix graham cracker or pistachio cookie crumbs with melted butter and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
For the filling, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, eggs (one at a time), lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, lime juice, and vanilla. Mix until just combined—avoid overbeating.
Pour filling over the crust. Bake in a water bath for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Top with cherries and chopped pistachios before serving. Garnish with whipped cream if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 slices. Preparation takes 25 minutes, baking requires 65 minutes, and chilling takes at least 4 hours. Total time: about 5 ½ hours.
Storage/reheating
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually for up to 2 months, wrapped well in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Pistachio Crust – Use chocolate wafers or Oreos mixed with pistachios for a decadent base.
No-Bake Version – Swap the baked filling with a whipped cream and gelatin-stabilized cheesecake base.
Berry Swap – Replace cherries with raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
Citrus Boost – Add orange zest for a triple-citrus twist.
Nut-Free Version – Omit pistachios and use a classic graham cracker crust.
Cherry Glaze – Top with a cherry compote or pie filling for extra sweetness.
Mini Cheesecakes – Bake in muffin tins for single-serve versions.
FAQs
Do I need a water bath for this cheesecake?
It helps prevent cracks, but you can bake without one if you don’t mind a rustic look.
Can I use bottled lemon and lime juice?
Fresh juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center should jiggle slightly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cheesecakes are perfect for making a day in advance.
Can I use cherry pie filling instead of fresh cherries?
Yes, it makes for a quicker and juicier topping.
Do I have to chill it overnight?
At least 4 hours is required, but overnight gives the best texture.
What type of pistachios should I use?
Roasted, unsalted pistachios work best.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers for the crust.
How do I prevent cracks?
Bake in a water bath, avoid overmixing, and cool gradually.
Can I add chocolate to the filling?
Yes, melted white chocolate pairs beautifully with lemon-lime and cherry.
Conclusion
Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a vibrant, creamy, and unforgettable dessert that combines refreshing citrus, sweet cherries, and nutty pistachios in one elegant dish. With its striking look and rich flavor, it’s the perfect centerpiece for special occasions and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share a slice.
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