This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the tangy flavor of lemon and a light, fluffy meringue topping. It’s a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 2 cups crushed shortbread cookies
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Cheesecake:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup white sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 grated lemon zest
- Meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups lemon curd
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Step 2: Mix the crushed shortbread cookies and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 3: In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and grated lemon zest, scraping down the bottom and sides of the bowl. Spread this mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
Step 4: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until set in the middle. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely cool, at least 3 to 4 hours.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Beat the egg whites in a bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the 1/4 cup sugar and cream of tartar, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
Step 7: Spread the lemon curd over the cooled cheesecake. Spread the beaten egg whites over the lemon curd, sealing the meringue to the edges of the cheesecake.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven until the meringue is golden brown, about 10 minutes. Allow the cheesecake to cool uncovered in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert. This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 12 servings): Calories: 420 | Total Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 330mg | Total Carbohydrates: 38g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 31g | Protein: 8g