Embark on a culinary journey with this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, a recipe that transforms the iconic flavors of a Lemon Meringue Pie into a sumptuous cheesecake marvel. With layers of silky lemon and lemon curd cheesecake batters elegantly swirled atop a crisp graham cracker crust, this dessert is a textural delight. Crowned with a tart lemon curd topping and a gloriously toasted meringue, each slice is a testament to the sublime fusion of tangy and sweet. Perfect for those who revel in the art of baking, this cheesecake is a luscious twist on classic flavors, promising an unforgettable dessert experience.
Why You’ll Love This: The Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is an ode to the delicate balance between the zesty punch of lemon and the creamy richness of cheesecake. The crisp graham cracker base offers a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy filling, while the lemon curd adds an extra layer of tartness that cuts through the sweetness. The meringue topping, toasted to perfection, not only adds aesthetic appeal but also introduces a fluffy, light texture that melts in your mouth. This dessert is a celebration of flavors and textures, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
Perfect Occasion: This cheesecake is ideal for special celebrations, holiday feasts, or as a sophisticated finish to a gourmet meal. It’s a fantastic choice for spring and summer gatherings when the brightness of lemon feels especially refreshing. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or a simple gathering of friends and family, this cheesecake will be the centerpiece that draws everyone’s attention.
Decoration Tips: To elevate the presentation, consider adding lemon zest curls or thin lemon slices atop the meringue for a hint of color and to reinforce the lemon flavor. Edible flowers or fresh berries can also add a pop of color and a touch of elegance. When serving, a dollop of whipped cream on the side or a drizzle of lemon syrup can enhance the flavors and add visual appeal.
Lemon Curd Ingredients:
- Zest from 2 large lemons
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 4-5 medium lemons)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, cubed (85 grams)
Crust Ingredients:
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (280 grams)
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Cheesecake Batter Ingredients:
- 32 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- Zest from 2 large lemons
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup lemon curd (290 grams)
Meringue Ingredients:
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Lemon Curd: In a ceramic pan, whisk together lemon zest, sugar, lemon juice, eggs, and salt over low heat until it reaches 175°F (10-14 minutes), coating the back of a spoon. Strain, then whisk in vanilla and butter. Chill with plastic wrap on the surface for at least 3 hours.
- Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and cool.
- Cheesecake Filling: Mix cream cheese until creamy, then add sugar-lemon zest mixture, eggs (one at a time), vanilla, sour cream, and lemon juice. Separate 2 1/2 cups of batter and fold in 1 cup lemon curd. Dollop and swirl both batters in the crust.
- Bake: Place the springform pan in a water bath in the oven and bake for 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 12 minutes. Let cool in the oven with the door open for 1 hour, then cool completely at room temperature before chilling overnight.
- Meringue: Whisk egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt over a pot of water until 175°F. Beat until stiff peaks form, then top the cheesecake and toast with a blowtorch.
Enjoy this elegant Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, where every layer unfolds a story of intricate flavors and textures, offering a gourmet twist on beloved classics.
