Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Blend in sour cream until velvety.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture. Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- In a small bowl, mix heavy cream with cornstarch and salt until smooth. Slowly blend into the cream cheese filling.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Beat egg whites until soft peaks form, gradually adding sugar until stiff peaks form. Add cream of tartar while mixing.
- Warm fresh lemon juice, then slowly drizzle into meringue with mixer running on low.
- Spread meringue over the chilled cheesecake. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 8-10 minutes until light golden brown.
- After baking, cool slightly and refrigerate again for 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Notes
For optimal results, use room temperature eggs and ensure no yolk contamination for the meringue. Monitor meringue closely while baking for the perfect golden finish.
