Elevate your dessert game with our mouthwatering Lemon Meringue Cheesecake recipe! Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, zesty homemade lemon curd, and fluffy meringue topping, this dessert is sure to steal the show at any gathering. Perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cheesecake is a must-try for citrus lovers everywhere. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to create this showstopping dessert and impress your friends and family. Get ready to dive into a slice of lemony perfection!
Unveiling the Ingredients
1. Crafting the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2. Creamy Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
3. Luscious Lemon Curd
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
4. Fluffy Meringue
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Crafting the Culinary Masterpiece
1. Preparing the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture onto the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Creating the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs (one at a time), lemon juice, lemon zest, and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Making the Lemon Curd
- Whisk together eggs and sugar in a saucepan. Add lemon juice, butter, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Fluffy Meringue Topping
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon curd, covering the edges of the cheesecake.
5. Baking and Serving
- Bake the cheesecake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
- Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Slice and serve this delightful Lemon Meringue Cheesecake to impress your guests!
Our Lemon Meringue Cheesecake recipe is a testament to the artistry of baking. With its creamy cheesecake filling, zesty lemon curd, and airy meringue topping, this dessert is a true showstopper. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing with delight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use store-bought lemon curd for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute store-bought lemon curd if you’re short on time. However, homemade lemon curd adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the cheesecake.
- How long does Lemon Meringue Cheesecake last in the refrigerator?
- When stored properly in an airtight container, this cheesecake can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?
- While it’s possible to freeze this cheesecake, the texture of the meringue may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- Can I use a different type of citrus for the lemon curd?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange to create unique flavor variations.
- How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
- Baking the cheesecake in a water bath and allowing it to cool slowly can help prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
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