Description
A creamy and tangy lemon cheesecake with a sweet graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make dessert is both refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar (optional)
- 2 cups cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using). Stir until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined 9-inch springform pan or rectangle mold. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up the crust.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is silky smooth, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Once the crust has chilled, pour the cheesecake filling over the crust. Smooth the top of the cheesecake using a spatula to create an even layer.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until it has set and is firm to the touch.
- Serve: Slice and garnish with whipped cream, fresh lemon slices, or mint leaves for an elegant touch. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or foil to avoid absorbing odors.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Add Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for added flavor.
- Crust Variation: Substitute with crushed Oreos, almond flour, or coconut for a twist.
- Lemon Variation: Increase lemon zest and juice for a tangier flavor, or use lemon extract for an intensified citrus note.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or biscuits for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
