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#### **2. Prepare 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.
– Add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is fluffy.
– Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
– Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the filling is smooth and well combined.
– Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
– Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center should still have a slight jiggle to it.
– Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for an hour. Then, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors set.
#### **3. Prepare the Meringue Topping:**
– In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
– Add the cream of tartar and vanilla extract, then continue beating while slowly adding the sugar, about a tablespoon at a time. Beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
– Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, spread the meringue evenly over the top, creating decorative peaks and swirls with a spatula.
#### **4. Toast the Meringue:**
– Preheat your oven’s broiler on high. Place the cheesecake under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching carefully to ensure the meringue doesn’t burn. The meringue should turn a beautiful golden brown.
– Once toasted, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow the meringue to set for a few minutes.
#### **5. Serve and Enjoy:**
– Carefully run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake, then remove the sides of the pan. Slice the cheesecake into wedges, and serve cold.
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### **Why This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Is Perfect for Every Occasion**
– **Impressive Presentation**: This cheesecake is perfect for special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties. The golden meringue topping is not only delicious but also visually stunning, sure to impress your guests.
– **Balanced Flavor Profile**: The tangy lemon balances out the richness of the cheesecake, while the sweet meringue topping adds just the right amount of lightness. Each bite is the perfect mix of creamy, sweet, and tart.
– **Make Ahead**: This cheesecake is great for meal prep or advanced preparation. Make it a day or two ahead of time, and it will still taste just as fresh and delicious when served.
– **Family-Friendly**: If you have picky eaters or kids at your table, this cheesecake is a great way to introduce them to the classic flavors of lemon meringue pie in a more familiar form.
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### **Tips for a Perfect Lemon Meringue Cheesecake**
– **Avoid Cracks**: If you’re worried about cracks forming in your cheesecake, try baking it in a water bath. Simply wrap the bottom of your springform pan with foil to prevent water from seeping in, then place the pan in a larger roasting pan filled with hot water before baking.
– **Chill Before Serving**: Allow the cheesecake to chill for several hours before serving so that it firms up and the flavors have time to meld together. Overnight is best!
– **Customize the Meringue**: If you prefer a firmer meringue, you can add a little more sugar or use superfine sugar to help it hold its shape. Be careful not to overbeat, though, as this can make the meringue grainy.
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### **Final Thoughts**
This **Lemon Meringue Cheesecake** is a show-stopping dessert that will melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover, a fan of lemon meringue pie, or just someone who loves a good dessert, this recipe brings the best of both worlds together in a perfectly creamy, tangy, and sweet treat.
With its rich cheesecake filling, bright lemony notes, and fluffy meringue topping, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite for your special occasions. So grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to indulge in the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this incredible dessert!
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