Luscious Lemon Lime Cherry Pistachio

This luscious lemon-lime cherry pistachio cheesecake is that showstopper dessert everyone asks about the minute you set it on the table. It is the ultimate blend of creamy, tangy, sweet and nutty. Cherry pie filling on top brings a gorgeous color and a fruity pop, while roasted pistachios add crunch and elegance. If you love citrus-forward creamy desserts or dream of a cheesecake that brightens up every bite, keep reading.

I first made this cheesecake for my cousin’s spring birthday because she loves anything citrus. After the first bite my whole family declared it their new favorite dessert and now it is requested every summer.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: give the crust its classic taste and a snappy foundation. Look for fresh crumbs without any stale aroma for the best flavor
• Granulated sugar: balances the tartness of the citrus and adds structure throughout
• Unsalted butter: binds the crust with a subtle richness. Pick a high-quality butter for a better crust flavor
• Cream cheese: forms the core of the filling. Always use full-fat cream cheese for maximum creaminess and let it fully soften at room temperature for smooth blending
• Sour cream and heavy cream: together boost silkiness and tang. Use fresh cream for superior taste
• Large eggs: add structure and richness. Choose eggs with bright yolks for the best color and set
• Lemon zest and lime zest: brighten everything. Freshly grated zest ensures the most aromatic results
• Fresh lemon juice and lime juice: are the stars for sharp citrus flavor. Roll the fruit before juicing to get more juice and skip bottled
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavors and gives depth. Real vanilla extract makes a big difference here
• Cherry pie filling: adds sweetness and juicy bursts on top. You can use quality canned or make homemade cherry topping
• Chopped pistachios: supply the crunch and striking green color. Choose shelled unsalted pistachios for ease
• Fresh mint leaves (optional): make for a lovely garnish and extra freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter in a bowl and press the mixture firmly into a lightly greased springform pan base. Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about eight minutes until just golden and fragrant. Let the crust cool completely before adding filling. This sets up the base so the cheesecake slices neatly.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until completely smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial to avoid lumps. Add in sour cream and heavy cream and blend until no streaks remain. Then beat in eggs one at a time scraping the bowl between additions for a silky rich batter. Stir in the lemon zest lime zest lemon juice lime juice and vanilla extract and gently mix until everything is evenly incorporated but avoid overbeating

Fill and Bake the Cheesecake:

Pour cheesecake batter over the cooled crust smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for fifty to sixty minutes until the center looks just set and the edges are lightly golden. If you gently jiggle the pan the center should wobble slightly but not look wet. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for one hour to minimize cracks

Chill and Finish:

After cooling move the cheesecake to the fridge and chill four hours or ideally overnight. Chilling lets the texture firm up for the creamiest neatest slices. Just before serving top with a generous layer of cherry pie filling spread evenly and sprinkle over the chopped pistachios and fresh mint if using

Slice and Serve:

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean before each cut for beautiful slices. Serve chilled to enjoy the best of all the textures and citrus flavor

Save

My favorite ingredient in this cheesecake is the dual citrus zest. That punch of natural citrus oil always reminds me of my grandmother’s homemade lemon desserts. The first time I grated both fresh lemon and lime for this cheesecake the scent alone made everyone in the kitchen smile.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to five days. Wait to add cherry topping and pistachios until just before serving if possible so everything stays fresh and crisp. You can also freeze un-topped cheesecake by wrapping slices well in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and finish with toppings when ready to serve for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have pistachios use toasted almonds or pecans for a different nutty note. Try swapping fresh berries or a thin layer of raspberry jam if cherry is not your favorite topping. For a gluten free version pick gluten free graham or vanilla cookies for the crust.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake already looks gorgeous on its own but a few thin lemon and lime slices tucked among the cherries elevate your presentation. Serve alongside hot tea or coffee or crush a few extra pistachios over each slice and drizzle with a touch of honey for a deluxe twist.

A Bit of Context

Classic cheesecake has roots in both American and European baking but the addition of citrus zest and cherry topping feels fresh and modern. In countries around the Mediterranean nuts and bright citrus are often paired in desserts so this recipe is a nod to those sunny combinations.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I achieve a smooth cheesecake texture?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and beat until creamy with no lumps. Avoid overmixing the eggs to minimize air bubbles, which can cause cracks.

→ Can I substitute the cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh berries, another fruit compote, or leave it off entirely for a simpler citrus experience.

→ What’s the best way to prevent a cracked top?

Bake the cheesecake in a water bath, avoid overbaking, and cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.

→ Do I need to use fresh lemon and lime juice?

Fresh juice and zest impart the brightest flavors, but bottled juice works if needed. Zest is best when freshly grated.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep chilled in an airtight container for up to five days. For longer storage, slice and freeze each piece individually.

→ Can I make this ahead for a party?

Absolutely. Assemble a day in advance and garnish with cherries and pistachios shortly before serving for best texture.