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Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

4.8 from 70 reviews

This Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that combines a crunchy pistachio and graham cracker crust with a creamy pistachio-flavored cheesecake filling, topped with a vibrant cherry pie filling and optional chopped pistachio garnish. It’s perfect for a special occasion or any indulgent treat.

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

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ground pistachios, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove and let it cool.
  3. Prepare the filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until you get a smooth texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the sour cream, pistachio pudding mix, and vanilla extract. Mix just until everything is combined and smooth.
  4. Bake the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly cracked to cool gradually.
  5. Chill: After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set.
  6. Top and serve: Just before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Sprinkle with extra chopped pistachios if you like for a crunchy garnish.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling.
  • Do not overmix the batter once eggs are added to keep the cheesecake creamy.
  • Gradual cooling in the oven helps prevent cracking.
  • The cheesecake must be refrigerated for at least 4 hours before adding the topping.
  • You can substitute the cherry pie filling with fresh cherries if preferred.

Keywords: cherry cheesecake, pistachio cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, pistachio dessert, cherry pie filling cheesecake