Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly open. This prevents cracking.
3. Remove from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before adding the meringue topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Meringue

1. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy.
2. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff peaks form.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract (and food coloring if using) for extra flavor and color.

Step 5: Top and Toast the Meringue

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler on low, or set it to 350°F (175°C) if broiler isn’t available.
2. Spread the meringue evenly over the chilled cheesecake, swirling it with a spatula for a decorative look.
3. Toast the meringue for 2–5 minutes, watching closely until it turns light golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the cheesecake cool slightly after toasting the meringue.
• Carefully remove the springform pan sides and transfer to a serving plate.
• Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for neat slices.
• Garnish with lemon zest or thin lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips for Success

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother cheesecake.
• No cracks: Bake in a water bath or let the cheesecake cool slowly to prevent cracking.
• Meringue stability: Use clean, grease-free bowls and beaters to achieve stiff peaks.
• Extra tang: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract for a more pronounced citrus flavor.

Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a dessert that balances tangy, creamy, and sweet perfectly. It’s ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion where you want a dessert that both tastes incredible and looks impressive.

If you want, I can also create a version with step-by-step photos for each stage, so it’s like a mini visual recipe guide. That makes it much easier to follow and more fun to make.

Do you want me to do that?