If you appreciate the vibrant and refreshing taste of lemons and love cheesecake, this dessert will quickly become your new favorite. This Lemon Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy and zesty, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese filling, and a sweet sour cream topping. Itโs a delightful treat thatโs perfect for any occasion, and surprisingly easy to make. Letโs dive into the step-by-step process of creating this heavenly dessert.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 cup (84 g) graham cracker crumbs (about 7 sheets graham crackers, crushed)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature
- โ cup (133 g) granulated sugar
- โ cup (77 g) sour cream, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 large lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons) and juiced (about 6 tablespoons)
Topping*:
- โ cup (77 g) sour cream
- 2 tablespoons confectionersโ sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan with parchment paper. This will help you remove the cheesecake from the pan easily after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until all of the graham cracker crumbs are thoroughly coated with butter. The mixture should have a consistency similar to coarse sand.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined springform pan. To prevent water from getting into the pan during the water bath step, wrap two pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil around the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Set the crust aside.
Step 3: Make the Filling
Using an electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial to ensure your cheesecake has a silky texture.
Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Next, add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Blend these ingredients into the cream cheese mixture until smooth, again scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
With the mixer on low speed, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. After the eggs are mixed in, add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix just until these ingredients are incorporated to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Carefully place the springform pan into a deep roasting pan. Place both pans in the preheated oven.
Using a teapot or any container with a spout, pour hot water into the roasting pan until it is about halfway up the side of the springform pan. This water bath helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks from forming on the surface.
Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes, or until the top turns golden. The center should still be slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and confectionersโ sugar. Stir until well incorporated. For a smoother consistency, you may want to sift the confectionersโ sugar before mixing.
Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top of the cooled cheesecake. This adds a nice tangy sweetness that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up, making it easier to slice.
When youโre ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate. For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional lemon zest or thin slices of lemon.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all the dairy ingredients (cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs) are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them blend more smoothly and prevents lumps in your cheesecake.
- Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemons. Be careful to only zest the yellow part of the skin, as the white pith underneath can be bitter.
- Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs, mix just until each one is incorporated. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to crack.
- Water Bath Tips: Ensure the aluminum foil is wrapped tightly around the springform pan to prevent any water from seeping in during the water bath.
- Chilling: Let the cheesecake chill thoroughly in the refrigerator. This not only helps it set properly but also enhances the flavor.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Curd Topping: Although this cheesecake has a pronounced lemon flavor on its own, you can add a layer of homemade or store-bought lemon curd on top for an extra burst of lemony goodness.
- Berry Topping: Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries make a beautiful and delicious garnish for this cheesecake.
- Coconut Crust: Replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed coconut cookies for a tropical twist.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve each slice with a side of fresh berries or a fruit compote for a colorful and tasty addition.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense, creamy cheesecake.
- As Part of a Dessert Table: This lemon cheesecake is a perfect centerpiece for a dessert table at parties and gatherings.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, hereโs a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugars: 21g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
The Joy of Baking Lemon Cheesecake
Baking a lemon cheesecake is more than just creating a dessert; itโs about crafting a dish that brings joy and satisfaction to both the baker and those who get to enjoy it. The process of mixing the ingredients, pouring the creamy batter into the crust, and watching it bake to perfection is both rewarding and therapeutic.
Hosting with Lemon Cheesecake
Lemon cheesecake is a fantastic choice for entertaining. Here are a few tips to make it a hit at your next gathering:
- Presentation: Serve the cheesecake on a beautiful cake stand or platter, garnished with fresh lemon zest or thin lemon slices to make it look as good as it tastes.
- Personalize: Offer a variety of toppings like fresh berries, lemon curd, or whipped cream so guests can customize their slices.
- Pairing Drinks: Serve with a selection of beverages such as iced tea, coffee, or sparkling water with a splash of lemon to complement the cheesecakeโs flavors.
Making Memories with Family and Friends
Baking and enjoying lemon cheesecake is not just about the delicious flavors; itโs also about making memories with family and friends. Whether youโre baking it with your loved ones, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying it as a simple dessert, itโs a recipe that brings people together.
Storing and Freezing
- In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cheesecake tastes best when fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze lemon cheesecake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake warm, you can gently reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds, though itโs traditionally served chilled.
Tips for Success
- Softening the Cream Cheese: If youโre in a hurry, soften the cream cheese by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds.
- Mixing by Hand: If you donโt have an electric mixer, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk. Just make sure to blend thoroughly to achieve a smooth texture.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cheesecake, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the filling.
The Versatility of Lemon Cheesecake
The simplicity and versatility of lemon cheesecake make it a go-to recipe for many occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite flavors and garnishes, making it suitable for everything from casual family nights to festive celebrations.
Conclusion
Lemon Cheesecake is a rich, flavorful, and versatile treat thatโs incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a moist, flavorful cheesecake thatโs perfect for any occasion. Whether youโre serving it as a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delectable dessert, lemon cheesecake is sure to please. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious lemon cheesecake, and savor every bite. Happy baking!