Description
This Lemon Cheesecake is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet. The velvety texture of the cheesecake is complemented by a refreshing citrus flavor, making it a light and irresistible dessert. The buttery graham cracker crust and lemon-infused filling come together for a deliciously refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from spring gatherings to holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
For the crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
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3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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3 large eggs
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For the lemon topping (optional):
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing the sides and lining the bottom with parchment paper. -
Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, making an even layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. -
Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, sour cream, and heavy cream, and beat until combined and smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and fully combined. -
Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking. -
Chill the Cheesecake:
After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set. -
Make the Lemon Topping (optional):
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh lemon juice and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest. Let it cool to room temperature before spreading over the cheesecake. -
Serve:
Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, remove it from the springform pan. Optionally, drizzle with the lemon topping and garnish with additional lemon zest or whipped cream. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
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For a richer crust, you can substitute half of the graham cracker crumbs with crushed nuts (such as almonds or pecans).
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If you prefer a firmer cheesecake, you can increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, but be careful not to overbake as it could dry out the filling.
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The lemon topping is optional but adds a nice zesty kick and glossy finish to the cheesecake.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10th of the cheesecake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg