Blueberry and Lemon Cheesecake is a vibrant, creamy dessert that beautifully blends the tart brightness of lemon with the sweet juiciness of blueberries. With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth lemon-infused cheesecake filling, and a glossy blueberry topping, this treat is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, special occasions, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing lemon and sweet blueberry create a perfect flavor balance
- Creamy and rich texture with a light, citrusy finish
- Easy to make ahead—ideal for entertaining
- Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
- Great for spring, summer, or anytime you need a fruity twist on classic cheesecake
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Sour cream
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
For the blueberry topping:
- Fresh or frozen blueberries
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch
- Lemon juice
- Water
Directions
- Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla, and flour until just combined.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust. Bake in a water bath at 325°F for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool: Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Make the blueberry topping: In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water. Simmer until thickened. Let cool, then spread over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Chill Time: At least 4 hours
- Total Time: About 5½ hours
Variations
- Use a cookie crust (like shortbread or vanilla wafers) instead of graham crackers
- Swirl the blueberry topping into the batter before baking for a marbled effect
- Add a dash of lavender to the blueberry topping for a floral note
- Replace blueberries with blackberries or raspberries for a different berry twist
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Freezing: Freeze cheesecake (without topping) wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Add topping after thawing
- Reheating: Not recommended—cheesecake is best served chilled
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for the topping?
Yes, just cook them a bit longer to reduce excess moisture.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Bake in a water bath and avoid overmixing the batter or overbaking.
Can I skip the water bath?
You can, but the texture may be slightly denser and more prone to cracking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using GF graham crackers and flour.
Can I make it without lemon zest?
Yes, but lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor—use more juice if needed.
What kind of cream cheese works best?
Full-fat, brick-style cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this as mini cheesecakes?
Yes, use a muffin tin and bake for 18–20 minutes.
How far in advance can I make this?
You can make it up to 2 days ahead and add the topping before serving.
Can I use store-bought blueberry pie filling?
Yes, but homemade gives a fresher, less sweet flavor.
What should I serve with this cheesecake?
Fresh whipped cream, extra berries, or a lemon twist make great garnishes.
Conclusion
Blueberry and Lemon Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that delivers both elegance and bold flavor. With its creamy lemon filling and luscious blueberry topping, it’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. Whether for a dinner party, celebration, or quiet weekend treat, this cheesecake is sure to become a favorite.
Print
Blueberry and Lemon Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours (including cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Blueberry and Lemon Cheesecake is a bright, creamy dessert featuring a zesty lemon-infused filling swirled with a fresh blueberry compote, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for blueberry sauce)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until berries break down. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Add sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Drop spoonfuls of blueberry sauce and swirl gently. Repeat with remaining batter and blueberry sauce.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until center is just set. Turn off oven and crack door; let cool for 1 hour inside oven.
- Remove and cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Fresh blueberries yield better texture, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
- For a cleaner swirl, cool the blueberry mixture before adding to batter.
- Cheesecake can be made a day in advance for best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 110mg