Lemon Dream Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 24 ounces (about 3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
• Lemon slices or zest, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.

2. Make the Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the back of a spoon or measuring cup to pack it tightly.
3. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

3. Make the Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.

4. Assemble and Bake:

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish or roasting pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This creates a water bath, which helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
3. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually.
5. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and run a knife around the edges to loosen it from the pan. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set.

5. Add Topping and Serve:

1. Once chilled and set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
2. Spread the whipped cream or whipped topping over the top of the cheesecake.
3. Garnish with lemon slices or zest, if desired.
4. Slice and serve the Lemon Dream Cheesecake chilled. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and refreshing flavor of this delightful dessert!