Recipes by Brad, Simple Recipes anyone can make

Pistachio & Blackberry Cheesecake Towers (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

This recipe calls for a carefully selected list of ingredients to build the rich layers of the Pistachio & Blackberry Cheesecake Towers. Here’s an overview of each essential item along with precise measurements to guarantee success.

Cream Cheese (16 oz)

Smooth and full-fat cream cheese forms the creamy base of the cheesecake layer. Using full-fat ensures a rich texture and balanced flavor in the final dessert.

Sour Cream (1/2 cup)

Sour cream adds slight tanginess and softens the cream cheese mixture, giving it a velvety consistency without overpowering other flavors.

Sugar (3/4 cup granulated)

This amount sweetens the cheesecake perfectly while allowing the natural tartness of blackberries to shine through without being cloying.

Pistachios (1 cup, shelled and chopped)

Fresh pistachios provide a distinctive nutty crunch essential for layering. Chop them finely to distribute texture evenly throughout the towers.

Blackberries (2 cups fresh)

Luscious blackberries add vibrant color and juicy tartness. Use ripe but firm berries for the best visual appeal and mouthfeel within each layer.

Graham Crackers (1 1/2 cups crushed)

The graham cracker crumbs create a sturdy base layer with subtle sweetness that complements both pistachios and blackberries perfectly.

Butter (6 tablespoons melted)

Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs firmly while adding richness to the crust foundation of these delightful cheesecake towers.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon fresh)

A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the cream cheese mixture by enhancing its natural tanginess and balancing sweetness elegantly.

Ingredient close-up

# Instructions:

This detailed guide breaks down every stage needed to create stunning Pistachio & Blackberry Cheesecake Towers. Follow each step carefully to assemble layers that are both visually appealing and delectably flavorful.

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Base

Start by combining 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham crackers with 6 tablespoons of melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until all crumbs are moistened evenly. Press this mixture firmly into individual serving glasses or ring molds to form an even base layer about half an inch thick. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling so it sets firmly before adding more layers.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, beat together 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add 1/2 cup sour cream along with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and continue beating until fully combined into a silky creamy batter. Avoid overmixing which can introduce air bubbles affecting texture later on.

Step 3: Layer Cream Cheese and Pistachios

Spoon a generous portion of the cream cheese mixture over your chilled graham cracker base in each glass or mold. Sprinkle chopped pistachios evenly on top to add crunch throughout this layer. Lightly press down so nuts stick well but remain visible from outside layers once assembled. Place back into fridge for at least twenty minutes to allow partial setting before adding fruit.

Step 4: Add Fresh Blackberries Layer

Select firm yet ripe blackberries; rinse gently if needed then pat dry thoroughly. Arrange about five berries per serving as a colorful mid-layer atop pistachios in each tower container. This fresh fruit burst complements creamy textures beautifully while providing visual contrast that makes these towers irresistible at first glance.

Step 5: Repeat Layers for Height

Add another portion of cream cheese mixture over blackberries carefully without disturbing berries underneath. Follow again with chopped pistachios sprinkled evenly across this second creamy layer. If desired, add one more thin blackberry layer on top before final chilling steps—this repetition creates height while balancing flavors consistently throughout every bite.

Step 6: Final Chill Before Serving

Tightly cover assembled cheesecake towers using plastic wrap or lids if available, then refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight if possible. This resting period allows flavors to meld perfectly while firming up layers so they hold shape when unmolded or served directly from glasses.