Lemon Cheesecake Delight is a rich yet refreshing dessert with a creamy lemon-infused cheesecake layer on a buttery crust—ideal for any occasion, from summer soirées to elegant dinners.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:45–55 minutes
Total Time:6 hours
Yield:12–16 slices 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
1cup all-purpose flour
1/4cup granulated sugar (for crust)
1/2cup unsalted butter, melted
24oz cream cheese, softened
3/4cup granulated sugar (for filling)
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1/4cup fresh lemon juice
1/2cup sour cream or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325 °F (163 °C). Line or grease a 9-inch springform or round cake pan.
Combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter to form a crust. Press into the bottom (and optionally up the sides) of the pan.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup sugar and blend well.
Mix in eggs one at a time, fully incorporating after each addition.
Stir in lemon juice, zest, sour cream (or heavy cream), vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and silky.
Pour filling over the warm crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside with door ajar for 1 hour.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Release from pan and garnish with lemon slices, whipped cream, or fresh berries if desired before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor.
To prevent cracks, allow cheesecake to cool slowly in oven before chilling.
For a tangier filling, use sour cream; for a silkier texture, use heavy cream.
Garnish with lemon curd, fresh berries, or a berry swirl for added flair.
For clean slices, use a hot, dry knife between cuts.