A luscious and creamy dessert, this Decadent Pistachio Cream Cheesecake pairs the rich flavor of pistachios with a smooth, velvety filling and a buttery graham cracker crust.
Perfect for any special occasion or indulgent treat, this no-bake cheesecake is simple to prepare yet impressively delicious.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup pistachio paste or ground pistachios
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup crushed pistachios
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Step 2: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the pistachio paste and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, and mix until fully incorporated.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and fluffy. Avoid over-mixing.
Step 5: Spread the pistachio cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust.
Step 6: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
Before serving, spread whipped cream over the top and garnish with crushed pistachios.
Step 7: Slice into servings and enjoy your decadent pistachio cream cheesecake!
Tips
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
If using ground pistachios instead of pistachio paste, grind them finely for a smoother texture.
Chilling overnight yields the best flavor and texture for this no-bake cheesecake.
For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought pistachio paste?
Yes! Store-bought pistachio paste works perfectly and adds an intense pistachio flavor.
Look for one with minimal added sugar for best results.
2. How can I make this cheesecake dairy-free?
Substitute the cream cheese and whipping cream with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free version.
3. Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
4. How do I prevent the cheesecake from becoming too soft?
Ensure the filling ingredients are cold and properly whipped to maintain the cheesecake’s structure.
5. What can I use if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a pie dish, but it will be harder to remove clean slices without the removable sides of a springform pan.
Decadent Pistachio Cream Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup pistachio paste or ground pistachios
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream whipped to stiff peaks
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup crushed pistachios
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the pistachio paste and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, and mix until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and fluffy. Avoid over-mixing.
- Spread the pistachio cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly. Before serving, spread whipped cream over the top and garnish with crushed pistachios.
- Slice into servings and enjoy your decadent pistachio cream cheesecake!
