Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of classic cheesecake with the elegant, subtle flavor of pistachios. This Creamy Pistachio Dream Cheesecake is more than just a dessert – it’s a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds and elevates the traditional cheesecake to a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
Crust
US Measurements
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Metric Measurements
- 240g graham cracker crumbs
- 113g unsalted butter, melted
- 50g granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
US Measurements
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely ground
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp almond extract
Metric Measurements
- 4 (226g) packages cream cheese, softened
- 200g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 120ml sour cream
- 60ml heavy cream
- 150g shelled pistachios, finely ground
- 5ml vanilla extract
- 1.25ml almond extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan
- Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely
- Prepare the Filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition
- Incorporate sour cream, heavy cream, ground pistachios
- Add vanilla and almond extracts
- Mix until completely smooth
- Baking Process
- Pour filling over prepared crust
- Smooth the top with a spatula
- Bake for 60-70 minutes
- Center should be slightly jiggly
- Turn off oven, crack door, let cheesecake cool for 1 hour
- Cooling and Setting
- Remove from oven
- Run knife around edges to prevent cracking
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight
Nutritional Information
Per Slice (Approximate):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 70 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
- Servings: 12-14 slices
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth filling
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks
- Water bath method can help prevent surface cracking
- Allow cheesecake to cool slowly to maintain creamy texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers
- Nut-Free Version: Replace pistachios with white chocolate
- Vegan Adaptation: Use cashew cream and plant-based cream cheese
- Flavor Variations: Add rose water or cardamom for exotic twist
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking? A: Avoid overmixing, bake in a water bath, and cool gradually.
Q2: Can I freeze this cheesecake? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Q3: How long will the cheesecake last? A: Refrigerated, it will stay fresh for 5-7 days.
Q4: Can I use different nuts? A: Almonds or cashews work well as alternatives.
Q5: How do I know when the cheesecake is done? A: Edges should be set, center slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Keep covered for up to 5 days
- Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil
- Make-Ahead: Can be prepared 2 days in advance
- Serving: Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving
Indulge in this Creamy Pistachio Dream Cheesecake – a dessert that promises to transport you to a world of nutty, creamy bliss!