Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

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Here’s a complete, big and detailed recipe for Lemon Meringue Cheesecake—with everything you asked for: introduction, ingredients, instructions, methods, history, benefits, formation, nutrition, conclusion, and even the touch of “lovers” that food always deserves. 🍋🍰

🍋 Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

🌟 Introduction

Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a dazzling dessert that brings together three timeless classics: the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, the refreshing tang of lemon curd, and the airy sweetness of golden-browned meringue. It’s the perfect showstopper for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply when you want to impress someone special. Its balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it beloved worldwide.

📝 Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz (675g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

For the Lemon Curd Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) lemon juice (fresh)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into cubes

For the Meringue:

  • 4 large egg whites, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar (optional, for stability)

👩‍🍳 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 combined.
  3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
  3. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  4. Pour batter over the crust.
  5. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes, until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly.
  6. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
  7. Chill in fridge at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Prepare Lemon Curd

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk lemon juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks.
  2. Cook, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 6–8 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat, stir in butter until smooth.
  4. Let cool, then spread over chilled cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Meringue

  1. Beat egg whites until foamy.
  2. Add cream of tartar, then gradually add sugar while beating.
  3. Whip until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish

  1. Spread meringue over lemon curd topping.
  2. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls.
  3. Torch lightly with a kitchen torch OR place under broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  4. Chill until ready to serve.

📜 History

Cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, while lemon curd was popularized in 19th-century England as a luxurious tea-time treat. Meringue, a French invention, was once reserved for aristocracy. The fusion of all three into Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a modern innovation—born from the love of layering iconic desserts to create something richer, more balanced, and unforgettable.

💪 Benefits

  • Lemon provides Vitamin C and a refreshing tang that balances richness.
  • Cheesecake filling offers protein and calcium from cream cheese.
  • Egg whites in meringue add lightness without heavy fat.
  • Psychological benefit: This dessert boosts mood—sweet + tart + creamy = instant happiness!

🏗 Formation (Structure of the Dessert)

  1. Base: Buttery crumb crust, firm yet crumbly.
  2. Body: Smooth, creamy cheesecake layer.
  3. Crown: Luscious lemon curd, bright and tangy.
  4. Clouds: Toasted meringue swirls, airy and golden.

🫶 Lovers of This Dessert

  • Romantic Lovers: Perfect for anniversaries or Valentine’s dinners.
  • Family Lovers: A favorite at holiday tables and Sunday feasts.
  • Sweet Lovers: Anyone who enjoys a balance of tangy and sweet.
  • Cheesecake Lovers: For those who want cheesecake but with an elegant twist.

🥗 Nutrition (Per Slice – approx. 1/12 of cake)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Vitamin C: 15% DV

🎀 Conclusion

Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is not just a dessert—it’s an experience. Each bite takes you on a journey: buttery, creamy, tangy, and airy all at once. It unites traditions from different eras and countries into one masterpiece. Whether you’re baking it for your sweetheart, your family, or just yourself, this cheesecake guarantees smiles and sweet memories.

💛 Lovers of good food, lovers of cheesecake, and lovers of life—this one is for you!

Would you like me to also write a shortened “quick recipe card” version (like a printable summary), so you can use it while cooking without scrolling through the long history & benefits?

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