Name: Lemon Cheesecake Recipe: Creamy and Tangy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 320 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 24 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream; Optional: Lemon slices (whipped cream); Suggested Pairings: Tea (fresh berries)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Lemon Cheesecake is a creamy, tangy dessert, perfect for gatherings, holidays, or special occasions. This refreshing recipe, featuring a velvety lemon-infused filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, delivers bright, citrusy flavors with a smooth texture. Presented on a white ceramic cake stand or plate, optionally garnished with lemon slices or whipped cream, this Lemon Cheesecake recipe offers an elegant, vibrant aesthetic that elevates any dessert table. This recipe provides a straightforward baking method with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home bakers seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert that brings refreshing, celebratory charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 full sheets)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream

Serving:

Optional: Lemon slices, whipped cream, powdered sugar
Suggested Accompaniments: Fresh berries, mint leaves
Suggested Pairings: Tea, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic cake stand or plate
Suggested Equipment: 9-inch springform pan, food processor or rolling pin, mixing bowls, electric mixer, zester, juicer, spatula, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven and Prep Pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks if using a water bath.
Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes; cool slightly.
Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and sour cream; mix until creamy. Taste a small spoonful of the filling and adjust with more sugar or lemon juice for a balanced, tangy flavor.
Bake Cheesecake: Pour filling over the crust. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill with hot water halfway up the sides (optional water bath for smoother texture). Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Chill: Remove from the oven and water bath (if used). Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve: Run a knife around the edge of the pan, then release the springform. Transfer cheesecake to a white ceramic cake stand or plate. Optionally garnish with lemon slices, whipped cream, or powdered sugar. Slice into 12 pieces and serve with fresh berries or mint leaves, paired with tea or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Lemon Cheesecake

Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
Taste and adjust the filling before baking to balance tangy and sweet flavors.
Use a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure a creamy texture.
Chill thoroughly for clean slices and optimal flavor.
Present on a white ceramic cake stand or plate to highlight the bright cheesecake and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate until serving.
Zest lemons before juicing for easier prep.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with lemon slices or whipped cream for a vibrant, elegant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Lemon Cheesecake: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Vegan Lemon Cheesecake: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese, eggs with 3/4 cup silken tofu, butter with vegan butter, and sour cream with coconut cream.
Low-Sugar Lemon Cheesecake: Reduce sugar to 3/4 cup in the filling and use a sugar substitute in the crust.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Fold 1/2 cup fresh blueberries into the filling or top with blueberry compote.
Lime Cheesecake: Replace lemon juice and zest with lime juice and zest for a tropical twist.
Mini Lemon Cheesecakes: Divide crust and filling into a 12-cup muffin tin; bake for 20–25 minutes.
Lemon Meringue Cheesecake: Top with a layer of meringue (2 egg whites, 1/4 cup sugar, whipped and baked at 350°F for 10 minutes).
Ginger Lemon Cheesecake: Add 1 tsp ground ginger to the crust for a spicy contrast.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store cheesecake in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Use as a dessert for gatherings or special occasions.
Pair with tea or sparkling water to complement the citrusy sweetness.
Present on a white ceramic cake stand or plate with garnishes for an elegant, refreshing charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (1 slice each):

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 280mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 20% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 6% Daily Value
Calcium: 8% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sugar or vegan options reduce sugars or cholesterol). High in calories and fat due to cream cheese and butter.

Conclusion

This Lemon Cheesecake recipe delivers a creamy, tangy dessert perfect for gatherings or special occasions. It transforms simple ingredients into a refreshing favorite. Its straightforward preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The bright lemon flavor and smooth texture delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its vibrant, celebratory charm.