Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Baking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter in a bowl.
- Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes and cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar gradually.
- Mix in sour cream, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.
- Whisk together heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt; fold into the cheese mixture.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes until slightly jiggly.
- Cool cheesecakes in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add meringue sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Mix in warm lemon juice.
- Spread the meringue over cooled cheesecake and create peaks.
- Increase oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake meringue for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for 1 additional hour before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Ensure eggs are at room temperature for best meringue texture. Cool cheesecake gradually to avoid cracks.
