Lemon Meringue Cheesecake: 7 Steps to Heavenly Delight

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: lemon meringue cheesecake! This delightful treat brings together the zesty brightness of lemon with a light, fluffy meringue that dances atop a creamy cheesecake base. It’s like sunshine on a plate! Whenever my family gathers for special occasions, you can bet this cheesecake is the star of the show. The tangy lemon and sweet meringue create such a perfect balance that it’s hard to resist. Plus, the best part? It’s not just delicious; it’s stunning to look at too. Everyone’s eyes light up when I bring it out, and trust me, it disappears faster than you can say “lemon meringue cheesecake”! So, if you’re looking to impress your guests or just treat yourself, this is the recipe you need to try!

Ingredients for Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)

How to Prepare Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Alright, let’s dive into making this show-stopping lemon meringue cheesecake! I promise, it’s easier than you think and oh-so-worth it! First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will ensure your cheesecake bakes evenly and smoothly.

Preparing the Crust

For the crust, grab a bowl and mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter until it’s all nicely combined. You want it to look like wet sand! Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure it’s compact because this crust is going to hold all that delicious filling! Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This little step gives your crust a lovely golden color and a bit of crunch.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

While that crust is baking, let’s get to the filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar together until it’s smooth and creamy. You want it to be really fluffy! Then, add in the eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined—just look for that luscious, creamy texture! Pour this heavenly mixture over your crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly.

Baking the Cheesecake

Now, it’s time to bake! Place your cheesecake in the oven and let it bake for about 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is super important, so be patient!

Preparing the Meringue Topping

While the cheesecake is cooling, let’s whip up that dreamy meringue! In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar together until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the 1/2 cup of sugar while continuing to beat. You want to whip it until you see stiff peaks—this is where the magic happens! Gently spread the meringue over the cooled cheesecake, making sure to cover every inch. It’s going to look so fluffy!

Final Baking and Cooling

Pop the cheesecake back into the oven for an additional 10 minutes, just until the meringue turns a beautiful golden brown. Once that’s done, let it cool at room temperature for a bit before transferring it to the fridge. You’ll want to chill it for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can wait!) before slicing and serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it for that perfect slice of lemony goodness!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Hey there! Just a quick note about the nutritional information for this lemon meringue cheesecake: it can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve done my best to provide typical values, they’re not set in stone. Generally, you can expect around 350 calories per slice, with about 22 grams of fat, 5 grams of protein, and 30 grams of carbohydrates. It’s always a good idea to check your own ingredients for the most accurate numbers. Enjoy your cheesecake without worry, and remember, it’s all about balance and enjoying those sweet moments!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep time, so you can whip it up in no time!
Deliciously bright flavor that balances tart lemon and sweet meringue perfectly.
Stunning presentation that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Creamy cheesecake texture that melts in your mouth.
Great for special occasions or just to treat yourself!
Made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Perfectly customizable if you want to experiment with flavors.
A crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to tackle this lemon meringue cheesecake, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything mix together smoothly and prevents lumps in your filling.
Fresh lemons are key: Always opt for fresh lemon juice and zest. The flavor is so much brighter than bottled juice, and you’ll really notice the difference in your cheesecake!
Don’t rush the cooling: Let your cheesecake cool completely before adding the meringue. If it’s still warm, the meringue could melt and make a gooey mess. We want fluffy, not runny!
Watch the meringue: When you bake the meringue, keep an eye on it! Ovens can vary, and you don’t want it to turn too brown. A light golden hue is what you’re after!
Chill it well: Be patient and let your cheesecake chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight, if you can wait!). This helps all the flavors meld together and makes slicing a breeze.
Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some lime or orange zest for a fun twist. The lemon meringue cheesecake can easily become a citrus medley!
Keep it covered: Store any leftovers in the fridge covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep the meringue from getting soggy.

With these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best lemon meringue cheesecake ever. I can’t wait for you to share your scrumptious results!

Variations of Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

If you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to switch things up with your lemon meringue cheesecake, I’ve got some delightful variations that you’re going to love! These ideas can give your cheesecake a fresh twist while keeping that classic zesty flavor intact. Let’s dive in!

Mixed Citrus: Instead of just lemon, try adding lime or orange juice and zest to your filling for a vibrant citrus medley. The combination is refreshing and adds a new layer of complexity!
Graham Cracker Alternatives: Switch up the crust by using crushed digestive biscuits or even chocolate cookie crumbs for a unique flavor profile. A chocolate crust pairs wonderfully with the tart lemon filling!
Berry Swirl: Before baking, swirl in some berry puree (like raspberry or blueberry) into the cheesecake filling. It not only adds a pop of color but also a delicious fruity flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.
Almond Crust: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour mixed with a bit of melted butter and sugar to create a nutty crust that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once your cheesecake is set and chilled, drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the meringue topping for a decadent touch. It’s sure to impress!
Cheesecake Bars: If you want to turn this recipe into bars, simply adjust the baking time and use a rectangular baking dish. Cut into squares for a perfect dessert to share at gatherings!

These variations are just a starting point—feel free to get creative and mix in your favorite flavors! Each twist adds a personal touch to your lemon meringue cheesecake, making it truly your own. Enjoy experimenting and tasting along the way!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your lemon meringue cheesecake fresh and delicious! First off, if you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers (which is a big “if”!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain that wonderful texture and flavor.

To store your cheesecake, make sure it’s completely cooled and chilled first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep the meringue from getting soggy and maintain its lovely fluffiness. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember, the sooner you enjoy it, the better!

If you need to freeze your cheesecake, you can definitely do that too! Just slice it into portions and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can pull out just what you need whenever a craving hits! It should keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat—just serve it chilled and enjoy that creamy, zesty goodness all over again!

With these simple storage tips, you can savor every last bite of your lemon meringue cheesecake, even days later. Happy storing!

Share Your Experience

I absolutely love hearing from you, so let’s connect over this delicious lemon meringue cheesecake! If you give this recipe a try, I’d be thrilled if you’d leave a comment below. Tell me how it turned out for you, any fun twists you added, or tips you discovered along the way. Your feedback not only brightens my day but also helps fellow bakers in our community!

And hey, if you’re on social media, don’t forget to snap a photo of your cheesecake masterpiece and share it! Tag me so I can see your beautiful creations and cheer you on. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet treat for yourself, I know you’ll make it shine. Let’s inspire each other with our love for baking and all things lemon meringue!

Thank you for being a part of my baking journey. I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious experiences!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.