Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dessert that’s as delightful as it is decadent! This Luscious Lemon Swirl Cheesecake is not just any ordinary cheesecake; it’s a creamy, dreamy slice of heaven that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese with the refreshing zing of lemon. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this cheesecake will have everyone asking for seconds. With its beautiful lemon swirl design, it’s not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dessert—read on to discover how to make this irresistible cheesecake!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure that your cheesecake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly creamy.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to pack it down tightly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 packages of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of sugar to the cream cheese and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Add the 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, mixing until fully incorporated. This will give your cheesecake a delightful lemon flavor.
- Finally, fold in 1/2 cup of sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- To create the lemon swirl, take a small amount of the cheesecake batter and mix it with additional lemon juice and zest if desired, then drop spoonfuls of this mixture on top of the cheesecake batter. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm and the top may have a light golden hue.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
- After the cheesecake has cooled, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake, then carefully remove the sides of the pan.
- Slice the cheesecake into 12 servings and serve chilled. Enjoy your luscious lemon swirl cheesecake!
Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother and creamier filling without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs, mix on low speed and only until just combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake.
- Cool Gradually: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open to let the cheesecake cool gradually. This step is crucial to prevent cracks on the surface.
- Chill Overnight: For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheesecake to set perfectly.
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, consider adding fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. A dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 180mg
