Description
A refreshing and creamy cheesecake with a delightful citrus flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Thin lemon and lime slices, for garnish
- Lemon and lime zest, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, and lime juice. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Chill and Prepare Topping: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate: Remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Pipe or spread the whipped cream on top. Garnish with lemon and lime slices and additional zest for decoration.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
- For a more intense citrus flavor, increase the amount of lemon and lime zest.
- If you want a firmer texture, consider adding 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling.
- To prevent cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath. Wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with an inch of water while baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice