Description
This rich and creamy Pistachio Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling blended with finely ground pistachios for a delightful nutty flavor. Baked to perfection and chilled to set, it’s an elegant dessert perfect for any special occasion or a decadent treat.
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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer.
- Grind Pistachios: Using a food processor, grind the shelled pistachios until they are finely chopped. Set aside for incorporation into the filling.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth texture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and ground pistachios thoroughly to evenly distribute the nutty flavor.
- Assemble Filling: Pour the cream cheese and pistachio mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to firm up and develop flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, add a dollop of sour cream on top of each slice for added creaminess and garnish if desired.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
- Do not overbake to avoid cracks; the center should still jiggle slightly when done.
- Refrigeration is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly and enhance the flavors.
- For extra flavor, pistachios can be toasted lightly before grinding.
- This cheesecake can be garnished with additional chopped pistachios or a drizzle of honey for presentation.
