Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake

Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake 🍋🍰

Description

This Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, featuring a silky lemon cheesecake filling studded with juicy raspberries, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a billowy toasted meringue topping. It’s an impressive yet achievable dessert that’s great for special occasions or just to indulge in a treat bursting with citrusy brightness!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (60ml) sour cream
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (150g) fresh raspberries

For the Meringue Topping:

• 3 large egg whites
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp cream of tartar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed.
3. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold in the raspberries.
5. Pour filling over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Wrap the springform pan with foil and place it in a water bath.
2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50–55 minutes, until edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Meringue Topping

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg whites and sugar over simmering water until sugar dissolves (about 3 minutes).
2. Remove from heat, add cream of tartar, and beat with a mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. Mix in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Assemble & Torch the Meringue

1. Spread or pipe meringue over the chilled cheesecake.
2. Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue. If using an oven, broil for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Serving Size & Yield

• Servings: 8–10 slices
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 30g
• Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

✅ Use room-temperature ingredients – This ensures a smooth cheesecake batter.
✅ Do not overmix the batter – Overmixing can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
✅ Use a water bath – Helps prevent cracking and creates a creamy texture.
✅ Chill for best results – Allow at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
✅ Be gentle with raspberries – Folding them in carefully prevents them from breaking.
✅ Torch the meringue carefully – Move the flame continuously to avoid burning.

Benefits of Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake

✔ Rich in Vitamin C – Thanks to lemons and raspberries, this dessert boosts immunity.
✔ Antioxidant Power – Raspberries are packed with antioxidants that help fight free radicals.
✔ Good for Mood – Lemon’s bright flavor can help uplift your mood and reduce stress.
✔ Protein & Calcium – Cream cheese provides protein and calcium for bone health.

Q & A Section

❓ Can I use frozen raspberries?
✔ Yes! But do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

❓ How do I store leftovers?
✔ Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

❓ Can I freeze this cheesecake?
✔ Yes! Freeze without the meringue for up to 2 months. Add meringue fresh before serving.

❓ What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?
✔ You can broil the meringue in the oven for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.

❓ How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
✔ Avoid overmixing, use a water bath, and cool gradually inside the oven.

This Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake is the perfect balance of flavors and textures! Let me know if you need adjustments or variations. 😊🍋💛