Description
This show-stopping Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake combines a creamy lemon cheesecake with a swirl of tart raspberry and a billowy meringue topping. It’s the perfect dessert for special occasions, blending sweet and tangy flavors with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Meringue Topping:
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Raspberry Swirl:
- Combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the prepared pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of the raspberry sauce onto the filling and swirl gently with a skewer or knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Meringue Topping:
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until frothy.
- Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Top the Cheesecake:
- Spread or pipe the meringue over the chilled cheesecake. Use a spatula to create peaks for a dramatic look.
- Toast the meringue with a kitchen torch or place the cheesecake under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a stronger raspberry flavor, double the raspberry swirl recipe.
- To avoid cracking, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and use the water bath method.