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Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 78 reviews

This Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a luscious dessert featuring a crisp graham cracker crust, creamy lemon-infused cheesecake filling, tangy homemade lemon curd, and a fluffy golden meringue topping. Perfectly balanced with bright citrus flavors and a light, airy finish, it’s an impressive and refreshing treat ideal for any special occasion or sunny afternoon indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

For The Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

For The Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For The Lemon Curd Layer:

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

For The Meringue Topping:

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of cream of tartar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until everything is well combined. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until it’s slightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: Next, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until everything is blended smoothly. Pour the creamy filling over your cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake: Place your springform pan into a larger baking dish filled with water to create a water bath, which helps the cheesecake cook evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill completely.
  4. Prepare the Lemon Curd: In a medium saucepan over low heat, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Keep whisking continuously as it cooks for about 8-10 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter until melted and smooth. Allow to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake layer. Refrigerate again until the lemon curd is set.
  5. Make the Meringue Topping: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  6. Assemble the Cheesecake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the fluffy meringue evenly over the lemon curd layer, using a spatula to create peaks and swirls for a decorative finish. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature briefly, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the meringue. Slice and serve chilled. Garnish optionally with lemon slices or fresh berries for added appeal. Enjoy your refreshing Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake!

Notes

  • Be sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
  • Using a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking for the cheesecake.
  • Cool the cheesecake gradually by letting it sit in the oven after baking before chilling, to avoid sudden temperature changes.
  • Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry before whipping egg whites for the meringue for best volume.
  • Chill the cheesecake overnight if possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • If lemon curd seems too runny, refrigerate longer until fully set before adding meringue.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.

Keywords: lemon cheesecake, lemon meringue cheesecake, triple lemon dessert, lemon curd, creamy cheesecake, baked cheesecake, meringue topping

Find it online: https://freshrecipehub.com/triple-lemon-meringue-cheesecake-recipe/