Luscious Lemon Baked Cheesecake

This Luscious Lemon Baked Cheesecake combines a rich, creamy texture with a bright, zesty lemon flavor. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a decadent dessert that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Topping (optional):

• ½ cup lemon curd
• Fresh berries or additional lemon zest for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even layer.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until combined.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

1. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
• Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking.

1. Chill the Cheesecake:

• After the cheesecake has cooled, remove it from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.

1. Add the Lemon Topping:

• Before serving, spread a thin layer of lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake, if desired.
• Garnish with fresh berries or additional lemon zest for an extra touch.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve chilled slices of cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a fresh berry compote.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

This Luscious Lemon Baked Cheesecake is creamy, tangy, and utterly indulgent. Perfect for lemon lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike!

Let me know if you have any other requests or need further details!