Lemon Cheesecake

Lemon Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons. This New York-styled lemon cheesecake features a sweet graham cracker crust and a melt-in-your-mouth filling, topped off with a tangy lemon curd. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. The balance of flavors makes this cheesecake a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this lemon cheesecake is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest gives this cheesecake a refreshing zing that’s perfect for warm days.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it at parties, holidays, or as a delightful end to any meal; it fits every occasion beautifully.
• Creamy Texture: The cream cheese and sour cream create a smooth and luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
• Impressive Presentation: Topped with vibrant lemon curd, this cheesecake looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Lemon Cheesecake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
• Electric mixer: Ensures that the cream cheese is blended smoothly, creating the ideal texture for your filling.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in ingredients gently.

Ingredients

A New York-styled lemon cheesecake with a sweet graham cracker crust, melt in your mouth filling and a nice zing from the tangy lemon curd topping.

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (225g) about 14 sheets
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (2 ½ ounces)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar, divided (283g)
• zest of 2 lemons (no white pith!)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup lemon juice (58g) about 2 juicy lemons
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream (8oz or 227g)

For the Topping

• 1 cup lemon curd (10 oz or 277 g)

For Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 120 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Total Time: 720 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes until set.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add in granulated sugar while mixing. Incorporate flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully blended. Add eggs one at a time; mix just until incorporated after each addition. Finally, stir in sour cream until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the baked crust in your springform pan. Bake in preheated oven for approximately 60-70 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door ajar for an hour to cool gradually.

Step 4: Chill and Top

Remove from oven once cooled slightly; refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight if possible. Before serving, spread lemon curd on top evenly. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form; dollop on top before serving if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Cheesecake!

How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake

Serving your lemon cheesecake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Consider these delightful serving suggestions to enhance the flavors and presentation of this classic dessert.

Classic Presentation

• Slice with Care: Use a warm knife to cut clean slices. This prevents tearing and keeps the cheesecake looking beautiful.
• Garnish with Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.

Fresh Berries

• Mixed Berries: Serve your cheesecake with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness complements the sweetness perfectly.
• Berry Sauce: Drizzle a homemade berry sauce over each slice for added flavor and visual appeal.

Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Cream: Top each slice with lightly sweetened whipped cream. It adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the cheesecake.
• Flavored Whipping Cream: Experiment with flavors like vanilla or citrus to add depth to the dish.

Lemon Curd Drizzle

• Extra Lemon Curd: Serve with an additional spoonful of lemon curd on top. This enhances the lemony flavor and adds a lovely sheen.
• Curd Layering: For a more sophisticated look, layer lemon curd between slices when serving.

How to Perfect Lemon Cheesecake

Creating the perfect lemon cheesecake involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure yours turns out delicious every time.

• Bold Flavor: Use fresh lemons for juice and zest. This will give your cheesecake a vibrant taste that bottled products can’t replicate.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding eggs. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
• Water Bath Baking: Bake your cheesecake in a water bath. This gentle heat helps prevent cracks and ensures even cooking.
• Chill Properly: Allow your cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before chilling it in the fridge. This helps set the texture perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cheesecake

Pairing side dishes with your lemon cheesecake can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some ideas that complement its bright flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light combination of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
2. Minty Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and mint leaves for a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate.
3. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, serving rich chocolate mousse provides a decadent contrast to the citrus notes.
4. Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet is a light, refreshing option that echoes the flavors in the cheesecake.
5. Pistachio Crust Cookies: These nutty cookies add crunch and flavor while enhancing the overall dessert theme.
6. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso can help balance sweetness while providing warmth after dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a lemon cheesecake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the room temperature ingredients: Using cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to a lumpy filling. Always allow these ingredients to reach room temperature for a smooth texture.
• Boldly overlook the zest: Neglecting to add lemon zest means missing out on the vibrant flavor. Make sure you zest the lemons carefully, avoiding the white pith for better taste.
• Boldly rush the cooling process: Cutting into your cheesecake too soon can ruin its structure. Allow it to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before slicing.
• Boldly ignore the crust: A soggy crust can ruin your cheesecake experience. Pre-bake the graham cracker crust for a few minutes to ensure it stays firm.
• Boldly forget about the lemon curd topping: Skipping this step means missing out on that tangy zing. Spread the lemon curd evenly over your cheesecake for an added layer of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lemon cheesecake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• For best results, keep it covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing Lemon Cheesecake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months; just be sure to label and date them.

Reheating Lemon Cheesecake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place cheesecake slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 10-15 seconds. This helps avoid overheating and maintains texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Lemon Cheesecake different?

This lemon cheesecake features a classic New York-style recipe with a sweet graham cracker crust and a creamy filling topped with tangy lemon curd, offering a perfect balance of flavors.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Yes, you can use store-bought lemon curd if you’re short on time. It saves preparation time while still delivering great flavor.

How do I know when my Lemon Cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake is done when it’s set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

How should I serve my Lemon Cheesecake?

Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra touch. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I customize this Lemon Cheesecake?

Absolutely! You can add berries or other fruit toppings, or even swirl in chocolate or caramel for unique variations.

Final Thoughts

This lemon cheesecake is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors!

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Lemon Cheesecake

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Lemon Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons. This New York-style treat features a sweet graham cracker crust and a melt-in-your-mouth filling, all topped with a tangy lemon curd. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this cheesecake offers a refreshing zing that will impress any guest. With its impressive presentation and luscious texture, it’s no wonder this dessert is a favorite for celebrations and casual indulgence alike.

• Total Time: 4 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
• 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup lemon curd

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth in another bowl. Gradually mix in sugar, then add flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until blended. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in sour cream until smooth.
3. Pour filling over the crust and bake for 60-70 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door ajar for an hour.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight. Before serving, spread lemon curd on top and optionally add whipped cream.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 120 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 29g
• Sodium: 205mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For best flavor, use fresh lemons. Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to prevent lumps. Consider using a water bath while baking to avoid cracks.