Description
Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a zesty and creamy dessert that combines the tang of fresh lemon with the richness of cheesecake. Topped with a light, fluffy meringue, it’s a stunning and flavorful treat perfect for special occasions or indulgent desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- For the Meringue Topping:
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and cool slightly.
- For the meringue, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread meringue over the cooled cheesecake, creating peaks with a spatula.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the meringue is golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Use a water bath while baking for a creamier texture and to prevent cracking.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to room temperature before adding meringue.
- Garnish with lemon slices or zest for extra presentation flair.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: lemon meringue cheesecake, lemon cheesecake, creamy dessert, tangy cheesecake, baked cheesecake