✔ Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
✔ Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
✔ Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
✔ Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
✅ This creates a firm, buttery base for the cheesecake!
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling
✔ Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
✔ Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.
✔ Stir in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
✅ The fresh lemon juice & zest give it a bright citrusy flavor!
3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake
✔ Pour the batter over the cooled crust.
✔ Bake for 50-55 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly.
✔ Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
✅ Slow cooling prevents cracks!
4️⃣ Prepare the Lemon Topping (Optional but Amazing!)
✔ In a small saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
✔ Cook over medium heat until thickened (about 5 minutes).
✔ Remove from heat and stir in butter.
✔ Let cool slightly, then spread over the cheesecake.
✅ This adds a tangy, glossy finish that enhances the lemon flavor!
5️⃣ Chill & Serve
✔ Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
✔ Garnish with whipped cream, lemon zest, and fresh lemon slices.
✅ Every bite is smooth, tangy, and absolutely delicious!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake – Add 1 cup fresh blueberries to the batter 🫐
🔹 Lemon Raspberry Swirl – Swirl in raspberry jam before baking 🍇
🔹 No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake – Replace eggs with ½ cup heavy cream, and refrigerate instead of baking ❄️
🔹 Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free graham crackers
🥡 Storage & Freezing Tips
✔ Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
✔ Freeze without topping for up to 2 months (thaw overnight before serving).
✔ Best served chilled for a smooth, creamy texture!
✅ Make ahead for parties—it tastes even better the next day!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Perfect Lemon Cheesecake!
This Lemon Cheesecake is creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet! The zesty lemon flavor combined with the smooth cheesecake filling makes this a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dessert.
