Delightful Citrus Harmony: Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Preparation:

Crust Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Cheesecake Filling:

1. Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and flour until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined. Gradually add eggs, one at a time, scraping the bowl’s sides.
3. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan in a larger pan. Fill the larger pan with warm water halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath prevents cracking.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for 30 minutes with the door closed. Afterward, crack the oven door and let it cool for 30 more minutes.
5. Refrigerate the cheesecake for a few hours or overnight.

Lemon Curd Preparation:

1. In a double boiler, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 170-180°F or 77-82°C). Remove from heat and spread over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate until set.

Meringue Topping:

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine sugar, cream of tartar, vanilla extract, and egg whites. Place the bowl over simmering water and whisk until sugar dissolves (about 160°F or 71°C).
2. Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat on medium-high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. Spread or pipe the meringue over the lemon curd layer.
4. Use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue lightly.

Indulge in Citrus Bliss: This Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is an exquisite dessert that harmonizes citrusy brightness with creamy richness. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat, each luscious bite is a celebration of flavors and textures.