Luscious Lemon Cheesecake

Luscious Lemon Cheesecake is a refreshing and tangy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy lemon cheesecake filling, and zesty lemon glaze, this cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love the bright and tangy flavor of lemon, you will love this cheesecake recipe. It’s easy to make and perfect for any special occasion or holiday. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert that can be enjoyed chilled straight from the refrigerator.

How to Make Luscious Lemon Cheesecake

Graham Cracker Crust:

Ingredients:

• 2 2/3 cups graham crackers, crushed into crumbs
• 1/3 cup organic sugar
• 2/3 cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large baggie, crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. You’ll need 2 2/3 cups of crumbs.
3. Transfer the crumbs to a medium mixing bowl and add the organic sugar. Stir until well combined.
4. Whisk in the melted butter until the graham cracker crumbs are evenly coated.
5. Press the graham cracker mixture into either a 9-inch springform pan or a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.
6. Bake for 13-15 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

Lemon Cheesecake Filling:

Ingredients:

• 24 oz cream cheese
• 1 1/4 cup organic sugar
• 3 eggs, cage-free
• 2 tablespoons grated lemon peel
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and organic sugar on medium speed until creamy and smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs on low speed.
4. Stir in the lemon juice, grated lemon peel, and vanilla extract until well blended.
5. Pour the lemon cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust.
6. Bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes, then refrigerate for approximately 6 hours or overnight.

Lemon Glaze:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic sugar
• 2 eggs, cage-free
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons grated lemon peel
• 6 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. In a small pan, whisk together the eggs, organic sugar, lemon peel, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Add the melted butter to the pan and continue stirring constantly. The mixture will thicken, and it’s ready when the lemon glaze sticks to the back of a metal spoon.
3. Remove from the heat, transfer to a small bowl, and let the glaze cool for 15 minutes.
4. Refrigerate the glaze covered until cold.

Assembling the Cheesecake:

1. Once the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the springform pan (if using) and spread the lemon glaze on top.
2. If using a deep-dish pie plate, simply top the cheesecake with the lemon glaze.
3. Keep refrigerated and enjoy your delicious lemon cheesecake!

How to Serve Luscious Lemon Cheesecake

Serve this delicious cheesecake chilled with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of fresh lemon for garnish. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

How to Store Luscious Lemon Cheesecake

Store any leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make Luscious Lemon Cheesecake

• Make sure to let the cheesecake cool completely before adding the lemon glaze.
• For best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated lemon peel.
• You can garnish the cheesecake with additional lemon slices or zest for a decorative touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

Yes, you can use store-bought lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice will give the cheesecake a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

2. Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

3. Can I make this cheesecake without the lemon glaze?

Yes, you can skip the lemon glaze if you prefer. The cheesecake will still be delicious without it, or you can serve it with a different topping, such as fresh berries or whipped cream.