Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of traditional cheesecake with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the airy sweetness of meringue. This recipe has a special place in my heart, perfectly embodying the balance between tart and sweet. Whether for a festive gathering, a sunny afternoon dessert, or simply to brighten your day, this cheesecake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The crisp graham cracker crust holds a creamy lemon cheesecake filling, topped with a light and fluffy meringue that caramelizes beautifully. What makes this dish special is how it seamlessly marries the richness of cream cheese with the refreshing citrus notes, making it ideal for spring celebrations, summer barbecues, or whenever you crave something light yet indulgent.
"This cheesecake is a showstopper! The combination of tart lemon and sweet meringue is just divine. It disappeared in minutes at our dinner party!" – A happy baker.
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a rewarding endeavor. The process begins with crafting a buttery graham cracker crust that is baked to golden perfection. The creamy filling comes next, featuring soft cream cheese mixed with zesty lemon juice and sour cream. Finally, you’ll create a soft meringue to crown your cheesecake. The whole process is straightforward, with each layer contributing to an exquisite final dessert.
What you’ll need
Here’s the ingredient list for this scrumptious Lemon Meringue Cheesecake:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar (for crust)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Note: You can use gluten-free graham crackers if you need a gluten-free version.
