All About Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake
Indulge in a delightful symphony of flavors with my Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake. This exquisite dessert combines the tangy brightness of lemons with the creamy richness of cheesecake, topped with a fluffy cloud of toasted meringue. The zesty lemon curd swirls through the velvety cheesecake filling, creating a burst of citrus in every bite. The contrast of textures and tastes in this dessert is a true culinary masterpiece that will impress any palate.
My journey in perfecting this Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake has been filled with experimentation and joy. The process of balancing the tartness of the lemons with the sweetness of the meringue was a delightful challenge that resulted in a harmonious blend of flavors. Each slice of this cheesecake is like a sunny day captured in a dessert, bringing warmth and brightness to any occasion.
As you embark on creating this Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, prepare to be transported to a world of citrusy bliss. From the zingy lemon zest to the luscious cream cheese filling, every element of this dessert is designed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to elevate your baking skills and impress your friends and family.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the delightful process of creating the Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, let’s gather all the essential ingredients and equipment needed to make this luscious dessert.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 4 egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
In addition to the ingredients, you will need a 9-inch springform pan, a hand mixer or stand mixer, mixing bowls, a zester, and a saucepan for this baking adventure.
Having everything prepared and within reach will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Now that we have all our ingredients lined up, it’s time to start creating this tantalizing Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake!
Step-by-Step Directions
Now comes the exciting part: putting together this magnificent Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake! Follow my detailed instructions below to create a dessert that will dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Step 3: Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until set, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
- Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the batter is creamy and free of lumps.
- Step 6: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Step 7: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is almost set but slightly wobbly.
- Step 8: While the cheesecake is baking, make the lemon curd. In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and egg yolks over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
- Step 9: Once the cheesecake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake.
- Step 10: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Step 11: Pile the meringue on top of the lemon curd, spreading it to the edges to seal in the filling.
- Step 12: Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned.
- Step 13: Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Step 14: When ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and slice the Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake into generous portions.
With its tangy lemon flavor, creamy cheesecake filling, and fluffy meringue topping, this Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone craving for more!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before diving into the delightful process of making my Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake, let’s ensure we have all the essential kitchen tools ready to create this masterpiece. Here’s a list of items that will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Springform Pan: You’ll need a 9-inch springform pan to bake the cheesecake perfectly.
- Mixing Bowls: Have a set of mixing bowls in various sizes for preparing different components of the cheesecake.
- Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer will make whipping up the cheesecake filling and meringue topping a breeze.
- Zester: To extract the flavorful lemon zest for that extra zing in your cheesecake.
- Citrus Juicer: For extracting fresh lemon juice to infuse the cheesecake with tangy citrus notes.
- Baking Sheet: Use a baking sheet to place the springform pan on while baking to catch any drips.
- Parchment Paper: Line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula will help you fold in ingredients gently without deflating the mixture.
- Kitchen Torch: This handy tool is essential for torching the meringue topping to a perfect golden brown finish.
- Cooling Rack: Allow your cheesecake to cool evenly by placing it on a cooling rack after baking.
Having these kitchen tools at your disposal will not only simplify the cooking process but also enhance your baking experience while creating this luscious Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake.
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Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake
- Total Time: 90
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Delicious Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake for lemon lovers
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Next, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla.
- Then, pour the mixture over the crust and bake for 55 minutes until set.
- While the cheesecake is baking, make the meringue by beating egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the cheesecake and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Chill before serving and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add more zest to the meringue.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 70