LEMON MERINGUE CHEESECAKE

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Meringue Topping:

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh lemon slices
• Lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Prepare Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

3. Prepare Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

4. Bake Cheesecake:

1. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
3. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully chilled.

5. Prepare Meringue Topping:

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.

6. Finish Cheesecake:

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
2. Spread the meringue over the chilled cheesecake, covering it completely and creating decorative peaks with the back of a spoon.
3. Place the cheesecake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
4. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the lemon meringue cheesecake with fresh lemon slices and lemon zest if desired.
• Slice and serve the cheesecake, and enjoy its delicious tangy, creamy, and fluffy layers!

This lemon meringue cheesecake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any special occasion or dessert lover’s craving. Enjoy each delicious bite!