Ingredients
– For the Crust:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 2 lemons
– For the Lemon Curd:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– For the Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
– ½ cup granulated sugar
This curated list of ingredients sets the stage for creating the most scrumptious Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake. Each component plays a vital role in the overall flavor and texture.
Instructions
Creating the perfect Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake may sound daunting, but following these instructions will guide you through each step:
1. Prepare the Crust:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until combined.
– Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
– Gradually add sugar and mix until well combined.
– Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
– Add lemon juice and zest; blend until smooth.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
– Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
– Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour.
4. Prepare the Lemon Curd:
– In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar and egg yolks until smooth.
– Add lemon juice and zest, then place over low heat.
– Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat and add butter, stirring until melted.
– Let the lemon curd cool down slightly.
5. Layer the Cheesecake:
– Once cooled, spread the lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours until set.
6. Make the Meringue Topping:
– In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
– Gradually add sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
7. Add Meringue:
– Spread the meringue over the lemon curd layer, making peaks and swirls with a spatula.
8. Torch or Bake the Meringue:
– For a toasted effect, you can use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue gently. Alternatively, place the cheesecake back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes until golden.
9. Cool and Serve:
– Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then remove it from the springform pan.
– Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Following these instructions will lead you to a stunning Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake that will leave everyone impressed!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 slices
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 5g