Lemon Meringue Cheesecake: A Dessert Lover’s Dream
Step 1: Make the Crust
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl until the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming an even layer.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Cheesecake Filling
1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in sour cream, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla until fully blended.
4. Pour over the crust and bake for 55–65 minutes, until edges are firm and the center jiggles slightly.
5. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Step 3: Lemon Curd
1. Whisk lemon juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and mix in cubed butter until smooth.
4. Let it cool before spreading over the cheesecake.
Step 4: Meringue
