Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a showstopper—creamy cheesecake meets zesty lemon curd and fluffy meringue. It’s sweet, tart, and absolutely gorgeous. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of silky, tangy, and light-as-air textures. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look at cheesecake the same way again.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Versatile: A stunning dessert for holidays, birthdays, or just because.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients to create something extraordinary.
Quick and Easy: No complicated steps—just layer, bake, and top.
Customizable: Adjust the lemon curd to your preferred tartness.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone will rave about this elegant yet comforting dessert.

Ingredients in Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Graham Cracker Crust: Buttery, crumbly, and the perfect base.
Cream Cheese: The heart of any cheesecake—rich and creamy.
Sugar: To sweeten both the cheesecake and the meringue.
Eggs: Add structure and creaminess to the filling.
Lemon Juice and Zest: For that bright, citrusy punch.
Lemon Curd: A glossy, tangy layer that steals the show.
Egg Whites: Whipped into cloud-like meringue.
Vanilla Extract: To round out the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare a springform pan with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients

Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and sugar. Press into the bottom of the pan.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Pour over the crust.

Assemble the Dish

Bake the cheesecake until just set, then cool completely. Spread a thick layer of lemon curd on top.

Cook to Perfection

Whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over the lemon curd and use a spoon to create swirls.

Finishing Touches

Torch or broil the meringue briefly until golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy a slice of sunshine on a plate!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 420

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes + chilling

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for an elegant dessert experience.

Additional Tips

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
• Don’t overbake; the center should still jiggle slightly.
• Chill overnight for best results.
• Use a kitchen torch for an evenly browned meringue.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
Yes, it saves time and still tastes amazing.

2. Can I skip the meringue?
Sure, but it won’t have that classic lemon meringue vibe.

3. How do I prevent cracks?
Bake in a water bath and avoid overmixing.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better the next day!

5. How long does it last?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

6. Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Freeze without the meringue, then add fresh meringue before serving.

7. Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Absolutely, it makes a delicious lime meringue cheesecake.

8. Why did my meringue weep?
Overbaking or under-whipping egg whites can cause this.

9. Do I need to refrigerate after adding meringue?
Yes, but only after it cools completely.

10. Can I make mini versions?
Yes, use muffin tins for adorable individual cheesecakes.

Conclusion

Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is an elegant dessert that combines the best of both worlds—tangy, creamy, and topped with fluffy meringue. It’s a crowd favorite and a guaranteed showstopper at any event.

Print