Lemon Lime Cherry Pistachio (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy citrus cheesecake with cherries and pistachios. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Crust

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

→ Cheesecake Filling

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

→ Topping

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

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 inch springform pan with butter or non stick spray
02 - In a bowl mix graham cracker crumbs sugar and melted butter until combined Press into the base of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes Let cool on a wire rack
03 - Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth Add vanilla extract and mix then incorporate eggs one at a time Beat in lemon juice lime juice lemon zest and lime zest Fold in pistachios and cherries
04 - Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until edges are set and center slightly jiggles
05 - Turn off oven and crack the door Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight
06 - Run a knife around the edges of the pan to release the cheesecake Remove the springform sides Top with whipped cream cherries and pistachios Slice with a clean sharp knife

# Extra Tips:

01 - Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter
02 - Slow cooling in the oven prevents cracks on the surface
03 - Extra zest enhances the citrus flavor of the cheesecake
04 - Substitute raspberries or blueberries for cherries if preferred
05 - Replace pistachios with white chocolate chips for a nut free alternative