Lemon Cheesecake I

Lemon Cheesecake I Recipe - Classic American Dessert

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 60-70 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Lemon Cheesecake I is a delicious and creamy dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the rich and smooth texture of cream cheese. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Cheesecake has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece. The modern version of cheesecake, made with cream cheese, is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The addition of lemon to the classic cheesecake recipe adds a refreshing twist to this timeless dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp melted light margarine
3 packages (8 oz / 227 g each) low-fat cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
0.25 cup sugar
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
0.75 cup egg substitute
1 carton (8 oz / 227 g) sugar-free fat-free lemon yogurt
assorted fresh berries, optional

How to prepare

Combine cracker crumbs and margarine; press into the bottom of an ungreased 9-inch spring-form pan. Set it aside.
Beat cream cheese, flour, and sugar until they become light and fluffy.
Gradually add lemon juice and egg substitute. Beat well.
Fold in yogurt.
Pour the mixture into the crust.
Cover loosely with foil.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 60 – 70 minutes or until the center is almost set.
Allow it to cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate.
Garnish with berries if desired.

Variations

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
Top the cheesecake with a homemade blueberry or raspberry sauce for a fruity twist.
Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies for a different crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and heavy cheesecake.

- Use a water bath while baking to prevent cracking on the surface of the cheesecake.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Lemon Cheesecake I with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a beautiful presentation. Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Use a water bath while baking to ensure even cooking and prevent cracking.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent it from sinking in the center.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer and creamier texture.

- Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Lemon Cheesecake I can be made a day in advance and refrigerated overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cheesecake with fresh berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers for a decorative touch. - Serve slices on decorative dessert plates for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Lemon Cheesecake I with a glass of sweet dessert wine, such as Moscato or Riesling, for a perfect ending to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

- To reheat, allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature and enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 24g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 15g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 8g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 7g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 10%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 4%

Alergens

Contains dairy and eggs

Summary

This Lemon Cheesecake I recipe is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Lemon Cheesecake I is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the zesty flavor of lemon. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Lemon Cheesecake. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the thought of creating such a delicious dessert.

I had always been passionate about cooking, ever since I was a young girl watching my own mother and grandmother work their magic in the kitchen. They taught me everything I know about cooking, and I have spent my life collecting recipes and honing my skills. This Lemon Cheesecake recipe was a new challenge for me, and I was eager to give it a try.

I decided to make the cheesecake for a family gathering that was coming up. I knew that my grandchildren, who were always eager to try my new creations, would be thrilled with this lemony treat. As I gathered the ingredients and preheated the oven, memories of my own grandmother teaching me how to bake flooded my mind.

My grandmother had been a wonderful cook, known for her delicious pies and cakes. She had a way of making even the simplest dish taste like a gourmet meal. I remember spending hours in her kitchen, watching her work her magic with flour, sugar, and butter. She would always let me help out, teaching me the importance of patience and precision in baking.

One day, as she was making a lemon cheesecake, I asked her how she had learned to make such a delectable dessert. She smiled and told me the story of how she had acquired the recipe from a dear friend many years ago. Her friend had been a talented baker, known for her lemon desserts. When my grandmother had tasted her lemon cheesecake for the first time, she knew she had to have the recipe.

She had begged her friend to share the secret with her, promising to keep it safe and pass it down to future generations. And true to her word, she had kept the recipe safe all these years, waiting for the perfect moment to bring it out and share it with her own family.

As I mixed the ingredients together, the sweet scent of lemon filling the air, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in carrying on my grandmother's legacy. I knew that she would be pleased to see me making her beloved lemon cheesecake, using the recipe that had been passed down through the generations.

The cheesecake baked to perfection in the oven, the golden crust glistening with a hint of lemon zest. I let it cool on the counter, knowing that the flavors would only improve with time. When it was finally ready to be served, I cut a slice and placed it on a plate, garnishing it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

As my grandchildren dug into their slices of cheesecake, their eyes widening with delight, I knew that I had succeeded in capturing the essence of my grandmother's recipe. The tangy lemon flavor mingled with the creamy cheesecake, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart. It was a dessert fit for a queen, and I knew that my grandmother would have been proud.

As I watched my family enjoy the cheesecake, I thought about all the recipes that had been passed down to me over the years. Each one held a special place in my heart, a connection to the past and a promise for the future. I knew that I would continue to make my grandmother's lemon cheesecake for years to come, sharing it with my own grandchildren and teaching them the importance of family, tradition, and a good dessert.