Who can resist a slice of smooth, creamy cheesecake with a refreshing burst of lemon flavor? This zesty lemon cheesecake is a delightful dessert that balances the richness of cream cheese with the bright acidity of lemons, creating a perfect harmony of taste. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this cheesecake is sure to impress.
Imagine a velvety filling sitting atop a crisp, buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a sweet lemon glaze. It’s a dessert that’s not just a treat for the taste buds, but a feast for the eyes as well. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a tangy sweetness that lingers delightfully.
The Perfect Zesty Lemon Cheesecake
This lemon cheesecake features a rich and creamy filling made with cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, and zest, delivering a delightful tartness balanced with sweetness. The buttery graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a perfect combination of textures.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for about 1 hour. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled, garnished with additional lemon zest or whipped cream if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
