Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a spectacular dessert that combines three layers of zesty lemon flavors with the rich and creamy texture of cheesecake. The luscious lemon curd, smooth cheesecake filling, and golden meringue topping come together in perfect harmony to create a sweet, tart, and refreshing dessert that will steal the show at any gathering. With its bright citrus flavor and beautiful presentation, this cheesecake is an elevated twist on the classic lemon meringue pie.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake offers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. This recipe will guide you through the process step-by-step, offering helpful tips, and even variations to customize the cake according to your preferences.

Why You’ll Love Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Triple Lemon Flavor: With lemon zest, lemon juice, and tangy lemon curd, this cheesecake packs a punch of fresh, citrusy goodness in every bite. It’s perfect for lemon lovers who can’t get enough of the bright, refreshing flavor.
• Decadent Cheesecake Filling: The creamy cheesecake layer adds a rich and smooth texture that balances out the tartness of the lemon, making it the ideal base for the meringue and curd layers.
• Golden, Fluffy Meringue: The meringue topping is light, airy, and perfectly toasted to a golden brown. It adds a beautiful visual appeal and a delightful sweetness that complements the tangy lemon layers.
• Impressive and Beautiful: Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is not only delicious but also stunning. The layers of lemon curd, cheesecake filling, and meringue are visually captivating, making it an impressive dessert for any special occasion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cheesecake is a great choice for a holiday dinner, birthday celebration, or any time you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert. It’s a unique twist on traditional lemon meringue pie, making it an instant crowd favorite.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 5 hours (including cooling and setting time)
• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Cooling Time: 3 hours (for chilling and setting)
• Servings: Approximately 12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 35-40g

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

For the Lemon Curd:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 cup sour cream

Meringue Topping:

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Special Equipment

While making Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Springform Pan: A 9-inch springform pan is essential for making a cheesecake. It allows the sides to be removed easily, preventing any mess when serving.
2. Electric Mixer: An electric mixer is helpful for whipping the meringue and beating the cheesecake filling. It ensures a smooth, creamy texture for both the filling and the meringue.
3. Lemon Zester or Grater: A lemon zester or fine grater is perfect for extracting fresh lemon zest, which adds an aromatic citrus punch to the cake.
4. Whisk: A whisk is essential for making the lemon curd. It helps to smooth out the curd and ensures the eggs don’t scramble while cooking.
5. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few mixing bowls for preparing the crust, curd, filling, and meringue separately. Use bowls of varying sizes to help organize the ingredients as you work.
6. Spatula: A spatula will help you evenly spread the cheesecake filling and lemon curd into the crust and the meringue topping over the cheesecake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

To start, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a crumbly texture. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring it’s compact and level. You can use the back of a spoon to press the crumbs firmly into the pan.

Bake the crust for 10 minutes in the preheated oven to set it, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the rest of the components.

2. Make the Lemon Curd

In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water.

Whisk the mixture constantly as it heats, ensuring the eggs don’t cook too quickly. After about 5-7 minutes, the curd should thicken. Once it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat and whisk in the butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated.

Let the curd cool for a few minutes, then spread it evenly over the cooled crust. Set the crust and curd aside as you prepare the cheesecake filling.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and beat until everything is fully incorporated.

Fold in the sour cream until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. The sour cream adds a rich creaminess that will balance out the tangy lemon flavors.

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled lemon curd, smoothing the top with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.

Once the cheesecake is done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking. Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow it to set fully.

5. Prepare the Meringue Topping

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Spread the meringue over the chilled cheesecake, covering it completely. Use a spatula to create swirls or peaks in the meringue for a visually appealing presentation.

6. Toast the Meringue

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn. Once the meringue is golden, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely.

7. Serve the Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has cooled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice the cheesecake and serve! The creamy lemon filling, the tangy lemon curd, and the sweet, airy meringue make each bite a heavenly experience.

Tips for Perfect Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling. Cold ingredients can cause the filling to be uneven or lumpy.
• Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done baking. Overbaking it can cause cracks and a dry texture. The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools.
• Chill Properly: For the best texture and flavor, be sure to chill the cheesecake for at least 3 hours or overnight. This allows the layers to set properly and enhances the flavors.
• Golden Meringue: Keep a close eye on the meringue when baking. It can go from golden to burnt very quickly, so once it’s browned to your liking, remove it from the oven immediately.

Variations of Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Lemon-Lime Meringue Cheesecake: Add a bit of lime zest to the lemon curd or substitute some of the lemon juice with lime juice for a citrusy twist.
• Berry Topping: For a colorful and fruity addition, top the cheesecake with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries before serving.
• Ginger Crust: Replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed gingersnap cookies for a spiced, flavorful crust that complements the lemon filling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap the slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake will last up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place the slices in the refrigerator overnight.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Pair this cheesecake with a refreshing glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade to complement the citrusy flavors.
• Coffee: The rich and smooth flavors of coffee pair beautifully with the tangy cheesecake, balancing the sweetness and adding depth to the dessert experience.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries, citrus, and mint adds a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.

Print

Conclusion

Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a truly show-stopping dessert that combines the tartness of lemon curd, the smooth richness of cheesecake, and the sweetness of fluffy meringue. Its layers of flavor and beautiful presentation make it the perfect choice for any special occasion. With step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy this decadent treat with friends and family, and savor the perfect balance of flavors in every bite!