Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Name: Lemon Meringue Cheesecake: A Dessert You'll Love!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 large egg whites; ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar; ½ cup powdered sugar

Posted on December 27, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something special for my family. That’s why I absolutely adore this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake! It’s a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake and zesty lemon meringue that feels like a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a quick solution that will impress your loved ones. Trust me, the smiles you’ll see when they take that first bite are worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors! The creamy texture of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with the bright, zesty lemon meringue, creating a taste sensation that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even on your busiest days. With just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Lemon Meringue Cheesecake. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of your cheesecake crust, providing a sweet and crunchy texture.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together, ensuring a firm crust that holds its shape.

Cream cheese: The star of the show! Softened cream cheese gives the cheesecake its rich and creamy texture.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cheesecake, balancing the tartness of the lemon.

Eggs: Essential for structure, eggs help the cheesecake set perfectly while adding richness.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess, enhancing the overall taste of the cheesecake.
Fresh lemon juice: The zesty kick! Fresh juice brightens the cheesecake and gives it that signature lemon flavor.

Lemon zest: A little sprinkle of zest intensifies the lemony goodness, making each bite burst with flavor.
Vanilla extract: This adds a warm, sweet note that complements the lemon beautifully.
Egg whites: Used for the meringue topping, they create that fluffy, cloud-like texture.

Cream of tartar: This stabilizes the egg whites, helping them achieve those lovely stiff peaks.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the meringue and gives it a smooth finish.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to experiment with the lemon zest for a stronger flavor or substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist!

How to Make Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dessert that will wow your family and friends.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps set the cheesecake’s structure while keeping it creamy. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated. This mixture should resemble wet sand. Now, press it firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Make sure it’s compact; this will give your cheesecake a sturdy base. A well-pressed crust means no crumbling when you slice into it!

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. This combination creates a luscious filling that’s bursting with flavor. Make sure everything is well combined for a silky texture!

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over your prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake it in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps prevent cracks on the surface!

Step 5: Prepare the Meringue

While your cheesecake cools, it’s time to make the meringue. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. This means the mixture should hold its shape but still be a bit floppy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat until you achieve stiff peaks. This is the fluffy cloud that will top your cheesecake!

Step 6: Top and Bake Again

Spread the meringue over the cooled cheesecake, making peaks with a spatula for that beautiful texture. Bake it again for 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect golden hue without burning!

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Once baked, let the cheesecake cool completely before removing it from the springform pan. Then, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This chilling time is essential for the best texture. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and enjoy the delightful layers of creamy cheesecake and fluffy meringue!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix the cheesecake filling; mix just until combined.
For a perfect meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry.

Let the cheesecake cool completely before adding the meringue.
Use a spatula to create peaks in the meringue for a beautiful finish.

Equipment Needed

Springform pan: Essential for easy removal of the cheesecake. A regular cake pan works too, but slicing may be trickier.
Mixing bowls: Use medium and large bowls for mixing ingredients. Any size will do, just ensure they’re sturdy.

Electric mixer: A hand mixer is perfect for beating egg whites. A whisk can work, but it’ll take more effort!
Spatula: Great for spreading meringue and scraping down the sides of bowls.

Variations

Berry Bliss: Add a layer of fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, on top of the cheesecake before adding the meringue for a fruity twist.

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the meringue for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the lemon flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a gluten-free crust.
Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and aquafaba (chickpea brine) for the meringue to create a plant-based version of this dessert.

Key Lime Cheesecake: Swap out the lemon juice for key lime juice for a tropical twist that’s equally refreshing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Lemon Meringue Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
Serve alongside fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor contrast.

A light herbal tea or sparkling lemonade complements the zesty cheesecake beautifully.
For presentation, garnish with lemon slices or zest for a stunning finish.

FAQs about Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

As you embark on your Lemon Meringue Cheesecake journey, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:

Can I make Lemon Meringue Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to chill it in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt. It will give you a tangy flavor while keeping the cheesecake creamy.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Lemon Meringue Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Just be sure to cover the meringue to prevent it from getting soggy!

Can I freeze Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?

While you can freeze the cheesecake, the meringue may not hold up well after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider freezing just the cheesecake part and adding the meringue fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks?

If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, it could be due to moisture in the bowl or the egg whites. Make sure your mixing bowl is clean and dry, and try again. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can also help stabilize the egg whites!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories in the kitchen. The joy of watching my family’s faces light up as they take that first bite is priceless. This dessert brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion, making it perfect for celebrations or simply a sweet treat after a long day. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, it’s a delightful reminder that even in our busy lives, we can create something special. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process—your loved ones will thank you for it!