Description
Sweet indulgence meets nutty perfection in this cherry pistachio cheesecake, where creamy textures dance with bold flavors. Dessert enthusiasts can savor each rich bite of this delightful creation that promises pure culinary bliss.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups (354 ml) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
- 2 packages (16 ounces / 454 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30 g) pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
Cherry Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (8 g) cornstarch
Instructions
- Craft a robust foundation for the dessert by blending graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter until thoroughly integrated.
- Press the crumbly mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan, ensuring an even, compact layer. Chill in the refrigerator to solidify the crust’s structure.
- Whip softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
- Incorporate heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, continuously beating until the mixture transforms into a luxurious, aerated texture.
- Delicately fold chopped pistachios and sour cream into the cream cheese mixture, gently stirring to maintain the mixture’s voluminous nature.
- Transfer the velvety filling onto the chilled crust, using a spatula to create a smooth, level surface. Return to the refrigerator for an extended setting period, ideally overnight.
- Prepare the cherry compote by combining cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer the mixture, stirring periodically, until it thickens and develops a glossy, syrup-like consistency, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Allow the cherry topping to cool to room temperature, ensuring it doesn’t compromise the cheesecake’s delicate structure.
- Once the cheesecake has completely set, elegantly drape the cooled cherry topping across its surface, creating an enticing visual and flavor contrast.
- Slice and serve the cheesecake chilled, revealing its creamy interior and vibrant cherry adornment.
Notes
- Crush graham crackers finely to ensure a smooth, compact crust that holds together perfectly when sliced.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to prevent lumps and create a silky, smooth cheesecake filling that blends seamlessly.
- Toast pistachios briefly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the cheesecake.
- Replace fresh cherries with frozen or canned options if needed, adjusting sugar levels to maintain the perfect sweet-tart balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for topping)
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 445
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 275 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg