Irresistible 10-Step Lemon Meringue Cheesecake That Steals the Show

Lemon desserts have a way of waking up your soul, don’t they? This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is creamy, tangy, silky, and crowned with a fluffy meringue that feels straight out of a vintage bakery window. It’s bright without being sharp, indulgent without being heavy — the kind of dessert that makes people linger at the table just a little longer.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What Is Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?

This dessert combines three irresistible layers:

1. A buttery graham cracker crust
2. A creamy lemon cheesecake filling
3. A pillowy toasted meringue topping

It’s elegant enough for special occasions but totally doable at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, fresh lemon flavor
• Ultra-creamy cheesecake texture
• Stunning bakery-style presentation
• Perfect balance of sweet and tangy

What Does It Taste Like?

Silky cheesecake with a citrusy punch, followed by soft, lightly sweet meringue that melts on your tongue. Every bite feels light, luxurious, and refreshing.

Ingredients

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Graham Cracker Crust

• 2 cups (240 g) graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

Lemon Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (180 g) sour cream, room temperature
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Lemon Curd Layer

• ¾ cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)

Meringue Topping

• 4 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools Needed

• 9-inch springform pan
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Kitchen torch (or oven broiler)

Substitutions & Additions

• Use digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers
• Swap lime for lemon for a twist
• Add a thin layer of white chocolate under the curd

How to Make Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

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Step 1: Make the Crust

Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the pan. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 10 minutes. Cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, then sour cream, eggs, lemon juice, zest, vanilla, and salt.

Step 3: Bake

Pour filling over crust. Bake 55–65 minutes until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.

Step 4: Cool

Cool gradually, then refrigerate at least 4 hours.

Step 5: Add Lemon Curd

Spread lemon curd evenly over chilled cheesecake.

Step 6: Make Meringue

Beat egg whites with cream of tartar. Slowly add sugar until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add vanilla.

Step 7: Toast

Spread meringue on top and toast with a torch or under the broiler.

What to Serve with Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Fresh berries
• Earl Grey or chamomile tea
• Espresso or cappuccino
• Sparkling lemonade

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Use room-temperature ingredients
• Don’t overmix the batter
• Cool cheesecake slowly to prevent cracks
• Add meringue just before serving

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Do not freeze with meringue
• Cheesecake base can be frozen before topping

General Information

Lemon desserts have long been a symbol of spring and celebration. Pairing lemon meringue with cheesecake brings together European baking tradition and classic American dessert comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes — make the cheesecake and add meringue the day you serve.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh is best for flavor and aroma.

How do I prevent cracks?

Bake gently and cool slowly.

Can I skip the curd?

Yes, but it adds extra lemon punch.

Conclusion

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is bright, creamy, and unforgettable — a dessert that truly feels special. If you love lemon treats, you’ll also enjoy:

• Lemon Ricotta Cake
  https://poulef.com/lemon-ricotta-cake/
• Classic Lemon Bars
  https://poulef.com/classic-lemon-bars/
• Lemon Pound Cake
  https://poulef.com/lemon-pound-cake/
• Cheesecake with Berry Swirl
  https://poulef.com/berry-swirl-cheesecake/
• Vanilla Bean Cheesecake
  https://poulef.com/vanilla-bean-cheesecake/

Interactive Elements

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Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	15g
Carbs	38g
Sugar	28g
Protein	8g
Sodium	260mg

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