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#### Instructions:
**1. Prepare the Crust:**
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press this crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to compact it, ensuring it’s tightly packed. Bake for about 10 minutes or until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
**2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:**
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until fully incorporated. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and sour cream. For a firmer cheesecake texture, add the flour and mix until well combined.
**3. Bake the Cheesecake:**
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly. The cheesecake should firm up as it cools. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven for an additional hour with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking. Afterward, remove from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
**4. Prepare the Meringue Topping:**
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until the peaks become stiffer. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat until the meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix for another few seconds.
**5. Assemble the Cheesecake:**
Once the cheesecake has chilled and is firm, spread the meringue topping over the cheesecake. You can use a spatula to create soft peaks or swirl patterns for a beautiful effect. Be sure to spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the cheesecake to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
**6. Brown the Meringue:**
Preheat your oven’s broiler or set it to a high temperature (about 400°F or 200°C). Place the cheesecake under the broiler for 1-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The meringue should turn golden brown and slightly crispy on top. If you don’t have a broiler, you can also use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue gently.
**7. Serve and Enjoy:**
Let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing. If you want perfectly clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between cuts. Serve chilled, and enjoy the delightful layers of tangy lemon, creamy cheesecake, and sweet, airy meringue!
#### Tips for Success:
– **Room temperature ingredients:** Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling. This will help achieve a creamy, lump-free texture.
– **Don’t overbake the cheesecake:** The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven. Overbaking can lead to cracks and a drier texture.
– **Meringue perfection:** Make sure your bowl and beaters are free of grease or oil when whipping the egg whites. This will help achieve stiff, glossy peaks for the meringue.
– **Chill thoroughly:** The cheesecake needs plenty of time in the fridge to set. Don’t skip the chilling step, as it ensures a smooth and firm texture.
#### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Melt-in-your-mouth texture:** The creamy cheesecake pairs beautifully with the light and fluffy meringue, making each bite feel like a heavenly treat.
– **Tart and sweet balance:** The fresh lemon juice provides a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake and meringue, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
– **Visually stunning:** This dessert is a showstopper, with its golden-brown meringue topping contrasting beautifully against the creamy, lemon-infused cheesecake base.
**Lemon Meringue Cheesecake** is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of tart and sweet flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this cheesecake will leave a lasting impression on your guests (and yourself!). Enjoy the refreshing burst of lemon, the rich, creamy texture, and the airy meringue in every mouthful. Happy baking!
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