A layered cheesecake featuring lemon-infused filling, tangy lemon curd, and toasted meringue topping on a buttery graham crust.
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar
24 ounces cream cheese softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup lemon juice for curd
1 tablespoon lemon zest for curd
3/4 cup sugar for curd
3 egg yolks
2 tablespoons butter
3 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup sugar for meringue
Prepare crust and bake 10 minutes.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, and juice.
Bake in water bath 55 to 65 minutes.
Cool and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
Prepare lemon curd and cool.
Spread curd over cheesecake.
Beat egg whites with cream of tartar and sugar to stiff peaks.
Spread meringue on top and toast lightly.
Use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overbaking for smooth texture.