Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Heavenly Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The rich and creamy cheesecake is infused with bright lemon zest, swirled with tart raspberry sauce, and topped with a cloud-like, golden-browned meringue. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a decadent dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crumbs
Butter, melted
Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Vanilla extract
Fresh raspberries
Raspberry jam
Cornstarch
Egg whites
Cream of tartar
Powdered sugar

Directions

Heavenly Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake

Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
Add the Raspberry Swirl: Mix raspberry jam with cornstarch and heat until slightly thickened. Drop spoonfuls of the raspberry mixture onto the cheesecake batter and swirl with a toothpick.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges. Cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Prepare the Meringue: Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Top with Meringue: Spread the meringue over the chilled cheesecake and use a spoon to create decorative peaks.
Toast the Meringue: Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes until golden.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve with extra raspberries on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12 slices
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Berry Swap: Substitute raspberries with strawberries or blueberries for a different twist.
Citrus Twist: Try adding orange or lime zest for a unique flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the meringue for extra indulgence.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual servings by using a muffin tin.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Cheesecake is best served chilled, but if you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath and don’t overmix the batter.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! Cheesecake tastes even better when made a day in advance and chilled overnight.

Do I need a torch to toast the meringue?

No, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes until golden brown.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.

What if my meringue weeps?

Make sure the meringue is spread over the cheesecake while it’s cold, and avoid overbeating the egg whites.

Can I make this without lemon?

Yes, but the lemon enhances the flavor. You can reduce or replace it with vanilla.

What type of pan should I use?

A springform pan is ideal for easy removal.

How do I get a smooth cheesecake filling?

Use room-temperature cream cheese and mix until smooth without overbeating.

Can I skip the meringue topping?

Yes, you can serve it as a classic lemon raspberry cheesecake without meringue.

Conclusion

This Heavenly Lemon Raspberry Meringue Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that perfectly balances tart and sweet flavors with a rich, creamy texture. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday, birthday, or just because, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!