Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Meanwhile, in a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the cheesecake and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the meringue is golden.
- Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg