Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake – A Luscious Dessert Recipe
This Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake combines a crunchy graham cracker and pistachio crust with a creamy pistachio pudding-infused filling, topped with luscious cherry pie filling and optional chopped pistachios for a delightful, elegant dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 58 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 18 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup ground pistachios
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 5 tbsp melted butter
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup pistachio pudding mix (dry powder)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- Optional: extra chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Make the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, ground pistachios, sugar, and melted butter together until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until the texture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the sour cream, pistachio pudding mix, and vanilla extract and mix just until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is just set but slightly jiggly. Once baked, turn off the oven, slightly crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool gradually inside to prevent cracking.
- Chill the cheesecake: After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Top and serve: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Sprinkle with extra chopped pistachios if desired for added texture and garnish. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overmix the filling after adding eggs to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Baking with the oven door cracked after baking helps prevent cracking on the cheesecake surface.
- Refrigerating overnight enhances the flavor and texture of the cheesecake.
- Use a water bath method if desired to further reduce cracking.
Keywords: cherry pistachio cheesecake, pistachio cheesecake, cherry cheesecake, graham cracker crust cheesecake, pistachio pudding cheesecake, creamy cheesecake dessert
