Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake:
24 oz (675g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 2 lemons
½ cup fresh lemon juice
For the Lemon Curd:
3 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
6 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Meringue:
4 large egg whites
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust 
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling 
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Pour over the cooled crust.
Bake the Cheesecake 
Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare Lemon Curd 
In a saucepan, whisk eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and zest over medium heat.
Stir continuously until thickened (about 7-10 minutes).
Remove from heat and whisk in butter until smooth.
Let cool to room temperature.
Make the Meringue 
Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar while beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Beat in vanilla extract.
Assemble 
Spread lemon curd evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
Pile meringue on top, creating peaks with a spatula.
Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue or broil briefly until golden (watch carefully).
Serve 
Chill briefly if needed and slice carefully. Enjoy the perfect balance of tart, creamy, and sweet!
Notes
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Bake Time: 1 hour | Cooling & Chill Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 12