Contents
Introduction
If you’re a lemon lover, then the Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a dessert you absolutely cannot miss. This delightful treat combines the zesty flavor of lemons with a creamy cheesecake filling, all beautifully topped with a fluffy meringue. With a lemon cookie crust and homemade lemon curd, this cheesecake delivers a refreshing and decadent experience with every slice. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cheesecake will leave everyone longing for more.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
– 1 cups lemon shortbread cookie crumbs
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 32 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 4 large eggs
– Zest from 2 large lemons
For the Lemon Curd:
– 2 eggs
– 4 egg yolks
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp water
For the Meringue:
– 4 egg whites
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Prep Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Chill Time
8 hours
Total Time
11 hours
Yield
12 servings
Making the Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake involves several steps, but the reward is undeniably worth it. From creating a delicious lemon curd to whipping up a fluffy meringue top, each facet of this recipe contributes to an exceptionally flavorful cheesecake. Enjoy this lemony treat as a show-stopper dessert at your next gathering!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Make the Lemon Curd:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar vigorously for 4 to 5 minutes until thick and pale. Strain the lemon juice to remove any pulp and seeds, then add it to the egg mixture. In a small ramekin, combine cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add it to the mixing bowl. Pour the mixture into a medium-sized saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula for 4 to 6 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat, cover, and let cool.
2. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350F (177C). Prepare an 8-inch (20 cm) springform pan by double-wrapping the bottom and sides with foil. In a food processor, pulse 15 to 20 lemon shortbread cookies into fine crumbs to yield 1 cup. Add the melted butter and pulse until coated. Transfer crumbs into the prepared pan and press down to form an even crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a stand mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed for 7 to 9 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl often. Add the sour cream or heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. Mix for a few minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Zest the 2 lemons into the batter and mix to combine. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, then add dollops of the lemon curd and swirl with a knife or spoon. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and repeat with the lemon curd.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
Reduce the oven temperature to 320F (160C). Place the cheesecake in a deep baking dish or roasting pan and prepare a water bath by pouring enough water to cover 1 inch of the pan. Bake for 1 hour 30 to 45 minutes, until the center is set but slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door cracked open for about 1 hour. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill overnight.
5. Make the Meringue:
The next day, ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are clean and grease-free. Place the egg whites into the mixing bowl and whisk on high speed for 2 minutes until soft peaks form. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water (do not stir) and cook over medium heat until it reaches 238F (soft ball stage), about 7 to 8 minutes. As the sugar syrup cooks, turn the mixer to medium speed and slowly pour the syrup into the egg whites, avoiding the whisk. Once all the syrup is added, increase the mixer speed to high and whisk for 5 minutes until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy. Add the vanilla extract and whisk for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Spread the meringue over the cheesecake; it does not need to be cooled. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the meringue until golden. Serve slices with additional lemon curd on the side, if desired.
Notes
Chill Time:
For the best results, chill the cheesecake overnight to ensure it sets properly.
Meringue:
The meringue can be made ahead of time, but it is best to assemble it just before serving to keep it fluffy.
Enjoyment:
Enjoy this Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake as a refreshing and decadent treat that’s perfect for any celebration!
Cook Techniques
Making Lemon Curd
Whisk eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick and pale. Strain lemon juice and combine with the egg mixture, along with a cornstarch slurry. Cook consistently over medium heat until thickened.
Preparing the Crust
Pulse lemon shortbread cookies into fine crumbs, then mix with melted butter. Press into a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes to achieve a firm base.
Making Cheesecake Filling
Beat softened cream cheese until fluffy, then integrate sour cream, sugar, and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Incorporate lemon zest into the batter for an extra zing.
Baking the Cheesecake
Reduce oven temperature and bake cheesecake in a water bath to ensure even cooking. This method prevents cracks and keeps the cheesecake moist.
Making Meringue
Use clean, grease-free equipment to whisk egg whites until soft peaks form. Cook sugar and water until it reaches the soft ball stage, then pour into egg whites while whisking until stiff peaks develop.
Assembling and Serving
Spread meringue on top of the chilled cheesecake and caramelize with a kitchen torch for a golden finish. Serve slices with extra lemon curd for enhanced flavor.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
Yes, store-bought lemon curd can be used in place of homemade lemon curd to save time.
How do I store leftover cheesecake?
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I make the meringue in advance?
It is best to make meringue just before serving to maintain its fluffiness, but it can be prepared ahead of time if necessary.
What can I do if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks?
Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are clean and free from grease. Whisk egg whites until soft peaks form before gradually adding sugar syrup.
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, other citrus fruits like lime or orange can be substituted for lemon to create variations of this cheesecake.
Conclusion
The Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings joy to any dessert table. With its zesty lemon notes, creamy texture, and fluffy meringue topping, this cheesecake is sure to impress both lemon enthusiasts and cheesecake lovers alike. The time invested in preparing the lemon curd, crust, and meringue pays off in the form of a truly stunning dessert that will leave everyone craving more.
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