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Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

A refreshing dessert that combines three types of lemon zest with smooth cream cheese and topped with a cloud-like meringue.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • cup ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 3 packs 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large 3 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup ½ cup sour cream
  • cup ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 zests Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 zests Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 zests Zest of 1 orange
For the Meringue
  • 3 large 3 large egg whites
  • 0.25 teaspoon ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 0.75 cup ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 pinch Pinch of salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. For the crust, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
  3. For the cheesecake filling, beat the cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, and all the citrus zest.
  4. Pour the cheesecake filling onto your cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set, but still jiggles slightly.
  5. For the meringue, beat the egg whites in a separate bowl until soft peaks form, then add the cream of tartar. Gradually add in the sugar, maintaining peaks until glossy and stiff.
  6. Spread the meringue on top of your cheesecake and create swirls and peaks with a spatula.
  7. Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the meringue is golden brown.
  8. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for an hour before refrigerating for at least 3 hours.

Notes

You can adjust the zest according to what you have on hand—just remember to keep the total zest amount around 3 tablespoons. Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean for whipping egg whites. Serve this cheesecake chilled with a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.