Description
This Pistachio Cheesecake features a creamy, nutty filling made with finely ground pistachios blended into a smooth cream cheese mixture, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Baked to perfection and chilled for several hours, it’s a luscious dessert that combines the rich flavors of pistachios and cream cheese in a classic cheesecake style.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Filling
- 1 cup shelled pistachios
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Make Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Prepare Pistachios: Using a food processor, grind the shelled pistachios until they are finely chopped but not powdered. Set them aside for the filling.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Flavor and Add Nuts: Stir in vanilla extract and the ground pistachios thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavor and texture in the filling.
- Assemble: Pour the completed cream cheese and pistachio mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally add a dollop of sour cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess and garnish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is soft for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Do not overbake; slight jiggle in the center means the cheesecake will set properly as it cools.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle some chopped pistachios on top before serving.
- Use a water bath during baking for an even creamier texture (optional).
