Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

If you love cheesecake and lemon meringue pie, this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake center, a tangy lemon curd layer, and a cloud of toasted meringue on top, it’s rich, refreshing, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something special, this cheesecake will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Four Layers of Flavor: Buttery crust, velvety cheesecake, zesty lemon curd, and fluffy meringue.
• Showstopper Dessert: Perfect centerpiece for holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties.
• Balanced Taste: Creamy sweetness paired with citrusy tang.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be chilled and assembled a day in advance.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 300 g graham cracker crumbs
• 140 g salted butter, melted
• 40 g sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 900 g cream cheese, softened
• 200 g sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 200 g sour cream

For the Lemon Curd:

• 150 ml fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 100 g sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 60 g butter, cubed

For the Meringue:

• 4 large egg whites
• 200 g sugar
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
3. Press mixture into a springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one by one, mixing well.
3. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
4. Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool in the oven with the door cracked open for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Lemon Curd

1. Whisk lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs in a saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until thick (6–8 minutes).
3. Remove from heat, whisk in butter, and let cool.
4. Spread lemon curd over chilled cheesecake.

Step 4: Meringue Topping

1. Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
2. Slowly add sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread over lemon curd layer.
4. Toast under a broiler for 1–2 minutes or use a kitchen torch.

Expert Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth cheesecake batter.
• Prevent Cracks: Bake cheesecake in a water bath or cool it slowly in the oven.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the cheesecake and lemon curd the day before, then add meringue before serving.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Serving Ideas

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream
• A drizzle of lemon syrup

Conclusion

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds—classic cheesecake and tangy lemon meringue pie. With its creamy texture, zesty flavor, and golden meringue topping, it’s guaranteed to wow your family and guests. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want a dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes.