Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Fold in sour cream gently until the batter is smooth.
7. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
9. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
10. Remove cheesecake from oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
11. To prepare the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until fluffy.
12. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice, beating until smooth and creamy.
13. Once cheesecake is chilled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
14. Garnish with additional lemon zest or thin lemon slices if desired before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 70 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Tips:
Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smoother batter and frosting.
Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances the texture and flavor for the best results.