If you are looking for a dessert that dazzles both the eyes and the taste buds, this Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine sinking your spoon into a luscious, creamy pistachio-infused filling nestled on a buttery graham cracker and pistachio crust, all crowned with a glossy, sweet-tart cherry topping. It’s the kind of treat that feels special enough for holiday dinners yet inviting enough for any day you want to spoil yourself. This cheesecake balances nutty richness with bright fruitiness perfectly, making every bite an unforgettable moment of joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a single white bowl filled with light brown crumbly mixture that looks like crushed crackers or crumbs. The crumbs have a rough texture and fill the bowl almost to the top. Around the bowl, there are small rectangular pieces of whole crackers scattered on a white marbled surface. To the right side, there is a wooden spoon with some crumbs on it resting on a light beige cloth. A woman's hand is not visible but implied by the spoon placement. The scene has a soft, natural light and a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe calls for simple but essential ingredients that harmonize beautifully to create its unique flavor and texture. Each component, from the graham cracker crust to the cherry topping, plays a key role in building layers of taste and color that make this dessert so irresistible.

Graham cracker crumbs: The sturdy, buttery base that adds crunch and a warm undertone to the crust.
Ground pistachios: Bring a subtle nuttiness and a lovely green hue that brightens the crust and filling.
Sugar: Sweetens both crust and filling just right, balancing tart cherries perfectly.
Melted butter: Binds the crust ingredients together with a rich, creamy finish.
Cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, delivering a creamy, tangy base that melts in your mouth.
Eggs: Give structure and help set the cheesecake for that perfect slice.
Sour cream: Adds moisture and tanginess that lightens the texture.
Pistachio pudding mix (dry powder): Enhances pistachio flavor and gives a dreamy custard smoothness.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall aroma with a hint of sweet warmth.
Cherry pie filling: The jewel-like, glossy topping whose tart-sweetness contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Optional chopped pistachios: Provide a delightful crunch and pretty garnish to finish the cheesecake.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). It’s important to get the oven nice and ready so your cheesecake cooks evenly. Next, grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper—this will make releasing the cheesecake a smooth experience later on.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a bowl, mix your graham cracker crumbs, ground pistachios, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture holds together like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake it for about 8 minutes to set the crust and deepen the flavors. When done, let it cool completely; this step ensures your crust won’t become soggy once the filling goes in.

Step 3: Whip Up the Pistachio Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy—that’s the creamy foundation of your cheesecake magic. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each to keep the texture silky. Then fold in sour cream, pistachio pudding mix, and vanilla extract. Stop mixing as soon as it’s combined for that perfect cheesecake texture, tender and dreamy.

Step 4: Bake Your Cheesecake

Pour the luscious pistachio filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or just until the center is set but still gently jiggly. To avoid cracks, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open to cool slowly. Patience here pays off with a flawless surface!

Step 5: Chill Thoroughly

Once cooled, refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, if you can wait, overnight. This chilling step firms up the filling so your cheesecake slices beautifully and develops that iconic creamy texture.

Step 6: Add the Cherry Topping

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over your chilled cheesecake for a vibrant burst of color and tart-sweet flavor. If you love a little extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top—it adds a lovely textural contrast and finishes it with flair.

How to Serve Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

A round metal pan holds a creamy white cheesecake layer as the base. On top, the cheesecake is decorated with two sections: one half covered with smooth, shiny red cherries, and the other half sprinkled with chopped green pistachios, adding a crunchy texture. The cream looks thick and soft with slight swirls around the edges. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a showstopping presentation, extra chopped pistachios or a few fresh cherries scattered on top highlight the nutty and fruity flavors beautifully. You could also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate for decadent elegance.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a light cup of coffee or a mildly sweet dessert wine. Fresh berries on the side offer a refreshing contrast that keeps the palate lively, especially if you’re serving this after a rich meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on pretty plates with an extra spoonful of cherry topping or a dusting of powdered sugar for Instagram-worthy appeal. Or, turn it into parfaits layered in glasses with crushed pistachios and cherries for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It will keep beautifully for 3 to 4 days, preserving that creamy filling and bright cherry topping.

Freezing

If you want to make this Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe ahead or save leftovers long-term, it freezes well. Simply freeze before adding the cherry topping. Once thawed in the fridge, add the cherry layer fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, avoid microwaving or heating it. Instead, serve chilled right from the fridge to savor that silky pistachio filling and refreshing cherry topping as intended.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted roasted pistachios?

Yes! Using roasted, unsalted pistachios gives the best pure nutty flavor without overpowering the cheesecake. Salted pistachios may make the dessert too salty.

What if I don’t have pistachio pudding mix?

You can substitute with a teaspoon of pistachio extract and a little cornstarch for thickening, but the pudding mix helps with both flavor and texture, so it’s recommended to use it if possible.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

While a springform pan makes removing the cheesecake easier and safer, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment, but be gentle when unmolding.

Can I replace cherry pie filling with fresh cherries?

Fresh cherries add a lovely fresh element, but cherry pie filling provides that signature glossy tart-sweet topping that balances the cheesecake. You could simmer fresh cherries with sugar to create your own compote as an alternative.

How long does the cheesecake need to chill?

A minimum of 4 hours is essential for setting, but overnight chilling is ideal to achieve the best texture and flavor harmony in this Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels both elegant and homey, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Its layers of pistachio goodness paired with cherries create a delightful dance of flavors you won’t forget. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake something truly special—you deserve it!