Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for structure)
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to avoid overmixing.
- Mix in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger baking dish.
- Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pan (this helps prevent cracks).
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
4. Cool and Chill:
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
5. Prepare the Topping (Optional):
- Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Spread over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with extra lemon zest.
Tips for a Fluffy Cheesecake:
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent air bubbles and cracks.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to avoid sinking in the center.
Serve your fluffy lemon cheesecake chilled and enjoy the light, tangy flavor!
Would you like suggestions for variations, like a gluten-free crust or a no-bake version?