Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

why make this recipe

Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the bright, tangy flavor of lemon. The fluffy meringue topping adds a light, airy finish. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday, or just a sweet indulgence at home. If you love lemony desserts, this cheesecake will surely satisfy your cravings!

how to make Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Ingredients :

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup lemon juice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups egg whites (for meringue)
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to create the crust.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until it’s smooth. Add lemon juice, eggs (one at a time), salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and bake for another 30-35 minutes until set.
6. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and cream of tartar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
7. Spread the meringue over the baked cheesecake and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden.
8. Allow the cheesecake to cool before serving.

how to serve Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Serve the Lemon Meringue Cheesecake chilled, sliced into wedges. You can enjoy it plain or add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra richness. This dessert will surely impress your guests!

how to store Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the meringue starts to weep, it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later.

tips to make Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
• When beating the egg whites, ensure that your bowl is completely clean and dry for best results.
• Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the cheesecake set properly.

variation

For a different flavor, you can substitute lime juice for lemon juice to make a Lime Meringue Cheesecake. You can also add zest from the lemons or limes for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought crust?
   Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time.

2. What can I do with leftover meringue?
   You can pipe leftover meringue onto a baking sheet and bake it to make meringue cookies.

3. Can I freeze Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?
   Freezing is not recommended for this dessert, as the meringue may not hold up well after freezing and thawing.