Lemon Meringue Cheesecake 🍋🍰
A bright, tangy twist on classic cheesecake—rich lemon cheesecake topped with fluffy meringue, all in a buttery crust.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the meringue:
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar (optional, for stability)
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake 8–10 minutes. Cool slightly.
2. Make the cheesecake filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
- Pour over the baked crust.
3. Bake cheesecake
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- Bake 35–40 minutes until the center is mostly set (slight jiggle is okay).
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
4. Prepare meringue
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
5. Top cheesecake with meringue
- Spread meringue over slightly cooled cheesecake.
- Return to oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown.
6. Cool & serve
- Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 3 hours.
- Slice carefully and serve.
Tips
- Avoid cracks: Don’t overbake the cheesecake; a slight jiggle in the center is okay.
- Flavor boost: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the filling for extra zing.
- Meringue tricks: Make sure the cheesecake isn’t too hot when adding meringue, or it may weep.
- Presentation: Pipe the meringue for a fancier look before toasting.
I can also make a no-bake lemon meringue cheesecake version if you want something quicker and just as creamy.
Do you want me to do that?