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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients together until everything is well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, and continue to beat until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream and fresh lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
For an extra creamy texture, you can add a tablespoon of flour, though it’s optional. Once everything is thoroughly combined, pour the cheesecake batter onto the prepared graham cracker crust.
Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center may still jiggle slightly. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. After that, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Meringue Topping
While the cheesecake is chilling, make the lemon meringue topping. In a saucepan, whisk together the egg whites, sugar, vanilla extract, cream of tartar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to boil. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until the meringue is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, spread the lemon meringue topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Use a spatula to create soft peaks on top of the meringue. This will give it that beautiful, cloud-like appearance.
Step 5: Brown the Meringue
To give the meringue a golden-brown finish, carefully use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the top of the meringue. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the cheesecake under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Place the cheesecake back into the refrigerator to chill for at least another hour before slicing and serving. This step ensures that the meringue sets properly and the cheesecake stays firm.
Why This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Will Melt in Your Mouth
The true magic of this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake lies in its texture. The creamy, tangy cheesecake filling is smooth and velvety, with the perfect balance of tartness from the lemon and richness from the cream cheese. Topped with the meringue, which is light, airy, and slightly crispy on the edges, the combination creates a dessert that is truly indulgent yet refreshing.
Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and creamy textures that are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. The crisp graham cracker crust provides the perfect base for the cheesecake filling, and the lemon meringue topping adds an elegant touch.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Don’t Overmix the Eggs: When adding the eggs, be sure not to overmix to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks during baking.
- Chill Properly: Let the cheesecake set in the fridge for several hours to allow the flavors to meld and the meringue to firm up.
Conclusion
This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a decadent and unique twist on traditional lemon meringue pie and cheesecake. With its tangy lemon flavor, rich creamy filling, and fluffy meringue topping, it’s a dessert that is sure to impress your family and guests. Plus, the way it literally melts in your mouth makes it the ultimate indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, holiday gathering, or just as a sweet treat for yourself, this dessert is bound to become a favorite!
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