This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for lemon lovers! A creamy, tangy cheesecake filling sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust, all crowned with a fluffy, golden meringue topping. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a show-stopping treat, this dessert is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tangy and sweet: The perfect balance of flavors.
- Creamy and fluffy: A dreamy combination of textures.
- Impressive yet easy: Looks fancy but is simple to make.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for holidays, parties, or just because.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Meringue Topping:
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove and let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sugar and mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled.
4. Prepare the Meringue Topping
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the meringue over the cooled cheesecake, making peaks with the back of a spoon.
- Bake the cheesecake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the filling can introduce air bubbles, leading to cracks.
- Cool Gradually: Letting the cheesecake cool in the oven prevents cracking.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to set properly.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Citrus Twist: Use lime or orange juice and zest instead of lemon.
- Berry Swirl: Add a swirl of raspberry or blueberry sauce to the filling.
- Nutty Crust: Substitute graham crackers with crushed gingersnaps or nuts.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the meringue for a decadent touch.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is perfect for:
- Special Occasions: Serve at birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties.
- Dessert Buffets: Pair with other desserts like brownies or fruit tarts.
- Gifting: Package slices in cute boxes for a homemade gift.
- Brunch: Serve as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cheesecake (without the meringue) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add the meringue before serving.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Can I skip the meringue?
Yes, but the meringue adds a light, fluffy contrast to the rich cheesecake.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert—creamy, tangy, and topped with a fluffy, golden meringue. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a sweet treat, it’s sure to impress.
Let’s Bake Together!
I’d love to hear how your Lemon Meringue Cheesecake turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy baking! 🍋✨