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Decadent Pistachio Cheesecake for Home Bakers

Pistachio Cheesecake made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup shelled pistachios finely ground
  • 1/4 cup pistachio pudding mix instant
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pistachios for topping

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
  • Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the sugar and mix until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
  • Mix in the sour cream, finely ground pistachios, pistachio pudding mix, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
  • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
  • Before serving, top the cheesecake with chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor.