Lemon Cheesecake

Short Description

A luscious lemon-flavored cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy, creamy filling. Finished with vibrant lemon curd and optional whipped cream for a refreshing, indulgent dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines rich, velvety cream cheese with bright lemon flavor
• Balanced sweetness and tang from curd and zest
• Classic presentation with a silky texture and elegant lemon topping
• Make‑ahead friendly—ideal for gatherings or special occasions

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 32 oz (4 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest
• 10 oz lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 °F (163 °C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill crust while preparing filling.
3. In a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the chilled crust. Place the pan in a water bath (bain-marie) and bake at 300 °F (149 °C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
6. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside to cool slowly for optimal texture.
7. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours before slicing.
8. When ready to serve, spread warmed lemon curd over the top. Garnish with whipped cream if desired.

Servings And Timing

• Serves: approximately 12 slices (depending on cut size)
• Prep Time: ~20 minutes
• Bake Time: ~90 minutes
• Cooling & Chill Time: ~8 hours
• Total Time: ~9 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Crust alternatives: Use digestive biscuits, shortbread crumbs, or crushed vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers.
• Citrus twist: Substitute or add lime or orange zest and juice for a mixed citrus flavor.
• Flavored curd: Use raspberry or blueberry curd for a color and flavor contrast.
• Lightened version: Replace part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or low-fat yogurt (texture may vary).
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crumbs or nut-crust alternative like almond flour with butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Serving tip: Allow slices to come to near room temperature for a few minutes to soften and enhance flavor.

FAQs

Can I Use A Different Crust?

Yes—crushed cookies, shortbread, or gluten-free cookie crumbs all work well as a base alternative.

Do I Need A Water Bath For Baking?

Yes—the water bath helps ensure a smooth, crack‑free, and creamy cheesecake texture by gently baking.

Can I Make The Lemon Curd From Scratch?

Absolutely—homemade lemon curd adds fresh brightness. Just make sure it’s cooled slightly before topping the cold cake.

What If My Cheesecake Cracks?

Cracks can be minimized by slowly cooling the cake in the turned‑off oven. If cracks appear, you can cover them with lemon curd or whipped cream before serving.

Can I Substitute Eggs With Egg Alternative?

Egg replacers or flax eggs may alter texture. Best results come from real eggs for structure and creaminess.

Is It Gluten‑Free If I Use Gluten‑Free Crust?

Yes—ensure other ingredients (like lemon curd) are gluten‑free certified or homemade.

Can I Reduce Sugar Without Sacrificing Texture?

Slight reductions are possible, but sugar plays a role in creaminess and set. Be cautious when reducing significantly.

Can I Freeze The Cheesecake With Topping Already Applied?

It’s better to freeze plain cheesecake and add lemon curd just before serving to preserve quality.

How Long Should It Rest Before Serving?

Serve after chilling at least 8 hours; for best flavor, allow about 10–15 minutes at room temperature before slicing.

How Do I Achieve Smooth, Creamy Filling?

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened, mix thoroughly without overbeating, bake in a water bath, and cool slowly.

Conclusion

This lemon cheesecake is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet—elegant enough for special events, yet simple to make. With its rich texture, vibrant lemon flavor, and effortless crust, it’s a dessert that pleases both the eyes and the palate. Chill well, slice cleanly, and enjoy each citrusy, decadent bite.

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