Description
This Heavenly Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake is a delightful dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy lemon-infused cheesecake filling studded with fresh raspberries, and a luscious golden-baked meringue topping. Perfectly balancing tartness and sweetness, it’s a show-stopping treat ideal for special occasions or any time you crave an elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
For the meringue:
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and set. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Prepare the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and continue mixing until smooth.
- Add eggs and sour cream: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream until the batter is completely smooth.
- Pour and bake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Drop fresh raspberries into the batter, lightly pressing them down. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for about 1 hour.
- Make the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until stiff peaks form. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Top the cheesecake with meringue: Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the meringue over the top, creating soft peaks. Use a spatula to make decorative swirls.
- Bake the meringue: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cheesecake with the meringue for 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with extra fresh raspberries if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your Heavenly Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Carefully fold fresh raspberries into the batter to avoid breaking them apart and staining the batter.
- Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven prevents cracking on the surface.
- The meringue topping should be baked just until golden to maintain a soft and fluffy texture inside.
- For the best flavor, make the cheesecake a day ahead to allow it to fully set and flavors to meld.
