Lemon Meringue Cheesecake that Literally Melts in Your Mouth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Make the crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
3. Press into the pan: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to compact it tightly.
4. Bake the crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
2. Add the eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix—just mix until the batter is smooth and incorporated.
3. Pour the filling into the crust: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
5. Cool the cheesecake: Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool slowly. Then, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. After it has cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set.

Step 3: Make the Meringue Topping

1. Whip the egg whites: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Add the sugar, a little at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Top the cheesecake with meringue: Once the cheesecake has cooled and set, spread the meringue evenly over the top, making sure to cover the entire surface and create decorative peaks.
3. Bake the meringue: Place the cheesecake with meringue back into the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meringue is golden and crisp, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely. For best results, refrigerate the cheesecake for another hour before serving.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Meringue Cheesecake:

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the cheesecake its bright, tangy flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best taste.
• Don’t overmix the cheesecake filling: Overmixing can cause cracks in your cheesecake. Beat the ingredients just until smooth and well combined.
• Meringue tips: Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry before whipping the egg whites, as any fat or moisture can prevent them from reaching stiff peaks.
• Chill thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to chill for several hours or overnight to ensure it sets properly and holds its shape when sliced.

Why Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Is a Showstopper:

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake brings together the best of both worlds—the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake and the refreshing zing of lemon meringue. The cheesecake filling is smooth, tangy, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the meringue topping. And with its beautifully browned peaks, it’s sure to be a showstopper on any dessert table.

Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or just want to treat yourself, this melt-in-your-mouth Lemon Meringue Cheesecake will surely impress. Its perfect blend of textures and flavors will have your guests raving, and you’ll be asked for the recipe again and again.

Conclusion: A Heavenly Dessert Experience

If you’re a fan of lemon desserts and cheesecake, this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence. It combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the light, fluffy texture of meringue, all while delivering that irresistible tang of fresh lemon. Each bite is like a heavenly experience that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.

Treat yourself to this delicious dessert, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to recipe for impressing guests or satisfying your own sweet cravings.