You’re going to love this one—imagine a dessert that captures the vibrant essence of summer in every bite: zesty lemon and lime, juicy bursts of cherry, the rich creaminess of classic cheesecake, and that irresistible crunch of pistachios. Yes, Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is every bit as magical as it sounds!
This refreshing cheesecake is inspired by my grandmother’s love of layering flavors—she used to say, “Dessert should make your taste buds dance.” Whether it’s a backyard summer party, a weekend indulgence, or a festive holiday treat, this citrusy showstopper fits the occasion. And if you’re a fan of cherry desserts (like we are!), you’ll definitely want to browse our favorite cherry dessert recipes for more inspiration.
With its creamy texture, nutty base, and striking presentation, this baked cheesecake recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and adventurous beginners. Let’s get right into the zesty goodness.
In This Guide
Ingredients for Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- ½ cup chopped fresh cherries
Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Whole cherries
- Chopped pistachios
How to Make Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the base with parchment for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to create a crunchy cheesecake crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Filling
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend in the lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest—this is where that bold, citrus punch comes alive!
- Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and cherries for that vibrant texture and fresh cherry dessert flavor.
Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the mixture over your prepared crust. Smooth the top gently.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly. The edges should have that golden, silky look.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Cool and Chill
- Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge for at least 4 hours—or better yet, overnight. This helps it firm up beautifully and allows the flavors to deepen.
Need more cherry dessert inspiration? Try these easy cherry pie bars for another fruity dessert option.
Serving Tips
For the perfect slice:
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
- Garnish with piped whipped cream, a dusting of chopped pistachios, and a whole cherry on top.
- Use a hot, clean knife between slices for that elegant presentation.
- Pairs beautifully with herbal teas, espresso, or a chilled glass of limoncello.
- Follow us on Facebook for more cheesecake and dessert inspiration.
How to Store Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
- Store your cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, wrap tightly without toppings. It keeps well for up to 2 months.
- Use parchment between slices to prevent sticking during freezing.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge, and always add toppings just before serving.
Related Recipes
Can’t get enough cheesecake?
- Cool down with our strawberry cheesecake ice cream twist
- Love cheesecake? Don’t miss this strawberry crunch version
FAQs
Can I use jarred cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely, but drain them well and pat dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing, bake gently, and cool gradually in the oven with the door cracked.
Conclusion
This Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is more than just a treat—it’s a celebration of bold, bright flavors and creamy, crunchy textures. It’s easy to prepare, gorgeous to serve, and an instant hit at any gathering. Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your twist, and explore more sweet creations on our Pinterest page.
Print
Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 1 cheesecake 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
You’re going to love this one—imagine a dessert that captures the vibrant essence of summer in every bite: zesty lemon and lime, juicy bursts of cherry, the rich creaminess of classic cheesecake, and that irresistible crunch of pistachios.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- ½ cup chopped fresh cherries
- Whipped cream
- Whole cherries
- Chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the base with parchment.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Blend in lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and lime zest. Fold in chopped pistachios and cherries.
- Pour filling over crust, smooth the top, and bake for 50–60 minutes until center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, whole cherries, and chopped pistachios.
Notes
Chill thoroughly before serving and use a hot, clean knife for perfect slices. Pairs beautifully with herbal teas or limoncello.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: cheesecake, lemon, lime, cherry, pistachio, summer dessert