Indulge in the perfect blend of tangy citrus and creamy cheesecake with this ultimate lemon cheesecake recipe. Whether you’re a cheesecake enthusiast or new to baking, this dessert promises to delight with its rich flavor and velvety texture.
Ingredients for Ultimate Lemon Cheesecake
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Curd (Optional):
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
How to Make Ultimate Lemon Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Tap the pan gently on the countertop to release any air bubbles.
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour.
Step 4: Optional – Make the Lemon Curd (for topping)
- In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, and eggs.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in cubed butter until melted and smooth.
- Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled and set.
- Before serving, spread the optional lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness of this ultimate lemon cheesecake!
About the Main Ingredients
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese forms the rich and creamy base of the cheesecake filling. It adds a luxurious texture and balances the tanginess of the lemon juice and zest.
Lemon Juice and Zest
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the vibrant citrus flavor that makes this cheesecake refreshing and bright. They add depth and complexity to the creamy cheesecake filling, making each bite burst with lemony goodness.
This ultimate lemon cheesecake recipe is sure to impress with its smooth texture, zesty flavor, and decadent appeal. Whether for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert will become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy creating this delightful treat and savor every bite of creamy lemon perfection!
