For the Lemon–Lime Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lime
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Juice of ½ lime
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Swirl

• ½ cup cherry preserves or pie filling
• 1 tablespoon water
• Optional: splash of almond extract for extra flavor

For Garnish

• Chopped pistachios
• Lemon and lime slices
• Fresh cherries

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🥄 How to Make It

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix graham crumbs, pistachios, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
4. Bake for 8 minutes, then cool slightly.

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2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar and mix until creamy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
4. Stir in sour cream, citrus zest, citrus juice, and vanilla.
5. Pour the mixture over the cooled pistachio crust.

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3. Create the Cherry Swirl

1. Heat cherry preserves with water until slightly thinned.
2. Spoon small dollops on top of the cheesecake batter.
3. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cherries into the filling.

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4. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water (water bath).
2. Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

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🍒 Finishing Touches

Before serving, top with:

• A handful of chopped pistachios
• Thin slices of lemon and lime
• A few cherries for a pop of color

This adds a gorgeous presentation and extra flavor.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is:

• Visually stunning — bright swirls and green pistachios
• Flavor-packed — tangy, sweet, creamy, and nutty in every bite
• Perfect for gatherings — a dessert guaranteed to impress
• Surprisingly simple — easy techniques with decadent results

It’s the kind of treat that makes holidays brighter, dinner parties sweeter, and ordinary days feel like celebrations.