Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

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Here’s a complete, detailed recipe for Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, written with a rich introduction, full ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, methods, history, formation, conclusion, and even a touch for dessert lovers. 🍋✨

🍋 Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a stunning marriage between two beloved desserts: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the light, airy elegance of lemon meringue pie. With its buttery graham cracker crust, silky lemon-infused cheesecake filling, tangy lemon curd topping, and fluffy golden-browned meringue crown, this dessert is a showstopper on any table. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a family gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cheesecake promises a perfect balance of tart and sweet, smooth and airy.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 300 g graham cracker crumbs (about 2 ½ cups)
  • 140 g salted butter, melted (about 10 tbsp)
  • 40 g granulated sugar (about 3 tbsp)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Curd:

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • ¾ cup water
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp butter

For the Meringue:

  • 4 large egg whites, room temperature
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until sandy in texture.
  3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add eggs and egg yolk one at a time, beating on low speed.
  3. Mix in vanilla, flour, sour cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  4. Pour mixture over the crust.
  5. Bake in a water bath (wrap pan with foil and place in a larger pan filled with hot water) for about 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
  6. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Curd

  1. In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
  2. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
  3. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and butter until smooth.
  4. Cool slightly, then spread over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Meringue

  1. Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
  2. Gradually add sugar while beating until glossy stiff peaks form.
  3. Blend in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Assemble & Finish

  1. Spread the meringue on top of the lemon curd layer.
  2. Use a spoon to create decorative peaks.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden.
  4. Cool completely before serving.

History & Formation

The origins of Lemon Meringue Cheesecake are a fusion of two timeless classics: New York-style cheesecake, which dates back to the early 1900s, and lemon meringue pie, popularized in the 19th century by French and American bakers. Combining the creamy depth of cheesecake with the brightness of lemon curd and the fluffiness of meringue creates a dessert that represents both tradition and innovation. Its formation follows layers—crust, cheesecake filling, lemon curd, and meringue—each adding texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration in every bite. The tang of lemon, the sweetness of meringue, and the creaminess of cheesecake create a harmony that dessert lovers can’t resist. It’s perfect for birthdays, Easter, Christmas, or any day when you want to spoil yourself or your loved ones.

For the Lovers 💛

  • Cheesecake lovers will adore the rich and creamy base.
  • Citrus lovers will fall in love with the lemony brightness.
  • Meringue lovers will enjoy the airy, cloud-like topping.
  • Baking lovers will appreciate the artistry of creating this multi-layered masterpiece.

✨ Would you like me to also give you a no-bake version of this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake for when you don’t want to turn on the oven?

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