Description
Lemon Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert with a refreshing citrus twist, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and smooth lemon-infused filling. Perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, it’s an elegant and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup sugar and mix until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until blended.
- Mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and let cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
- Garnish with powdered sugar or lemon zest if desired, then slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.Let ingredients come to room temperature for a smoother batter.Cool gradually in the oven to help prevent cracking.Top with lemon curd or berries for added flavor and presentation.Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg