Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake, zesty lemon, and fluffy meringue—a dessert that captures warmth and joy in every bite. This stunning treat strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart, making it ideal for celebrations or a cozy evening at home. I first tried my hand at Lemon Meringue Cheesecake during a holiday gathering, and it quickly became a favorite among friends and family.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are plenty of reasons to make Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, but let’s start with the fact that it’s a show-stopper. Imagine bringing this gorgeous dessert to your next gathering or family meal. It’s not just about taste; the layers of luscious cheesecake, bright lemon curd, and airy meringue create a beautiful presentation that will impress everyone at the table.
Additionally, this cheesecake can be a comforting treat or a refreshing finish to a hearty meal. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a holiday feast, this cheesecake has a way of bringing smiles to faces. It’s relatively straightforward to make, making it a wonderful choice even for beginner bakers who want to level up their dessert game.
"This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake stole the show at our last family gathering! The flavors are out of this world!" – Sarah G.
Step-by-step overview
Creating a Lemon Meringue Cheesecake may sound daunting, but the process is quite simple. First, you’ll whip up a buttery graham cracker crust, bake a creamy lemon-infused cheesecake filling, and then top it off with a golden meringue. Each step builds upon the last, culminating in a dessert that is truly delectable.
The process generally involves:
- Making a graham cracker crust.
- Baking and cooling the cheesecake.
- Spreading a layer of lemon curd for a burst of flavor.
- Whipping up the meringue and baking it to achieve that beautiful golden top.
By following these steps, you’ll create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet!
What you’ll need
To bring this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup lemon curd
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Feel free to substitute the graham crackers with crushed cookies for a different flavor, though the classic brings an authentic taste.
