Double Layer Lemon Meringue Cheesecake
Introduction
This Double Layer Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is one of my all-time favorite desserts. It combines the rich, creamy indulgence of classic cheesecake with the bright, tangy freshness of lemon and a light, fluffy meringue topping. Every bite balances sweetness and citrus perfectly, making it a show-stopping dessert for gatherings, holidays, or simply treating yourself after a long week.
Thank you all so much for the love and interest in this recipe! I’m a new member here and truly didn’t expect such an amazing response. It makes me so happy knowing how many people enjoy this dessert as much as I do.
Description
This dessert features:
A buttery graham cracker crust
A creamy vanilla cheesecake base
A vibrant lemon cheesecake layer
A silky lemon curd topping
Finished with golden, toasted meringue
The double cheesecake layers give it depth, while the lemon meringue brings a classic pie-inspired finish with a luxurious twist.
Ingredients & Quantity
Crust
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Layers
24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon Cheesecake Layer
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Lemon Curd Layer
¾ cup fresh lemon juice
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Meringue Topping
4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Base
Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add sugar and mix well.
Beat in eggs one at a time.
Mix in sour cream and vanilla.
3. Create the Double Layers
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust.
Stir lemon juice and zest into the remaining batter.
Gently pour lemon batter on top, smoothing carefully.
Bake for 55–65 minutes until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
4. Prepare Lemon Curd
Cook lemon juice, sugar, and egg yolks over low heat until thickened.
Remove from heat and whisk in butter.
Cool, then spread evenly over chilled cheesecake.
5. Make the Meringue
Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Beat in vanilla.
6. Assemble & Toast
Pipe or spread meringue over lemon curd.
Torch lightly or broil briefly until golden.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dessert draws inspiration from classic American cheesecake and traditional lemon meringue pie, both beloved staples in home baking. Cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, while lemon meringue became popular in Europe and the U.S. in the 19th century. Combining the two reflects modern baking’s creativity—honoring tradition while elevating flavor and presentation.
Optional Additions
Fresh berries on top for color and contrast
Ginger snap crust instead of graham crackers
White chocolate drizzle
Lemon extract for extra citrus intensity
Tips for Success
Always use room-temperature ingredients
Avoid overmixing to prevent cracking
Use a water bath for an ultra-smooth cheesecake
Chill thoroughly before slicing
Clean your knife between cuts for neat slices
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per slice)
Calories: 420
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 7g
Sugar: 30g
(Values vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This Double Layer Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is rich, refreshing, and absolutely worth the effort. It’s a dessert that impresses visually and delivers unforgettable flavor in every bite.
Recommendation
Perfect for:
Holidays
Family gatherings
Celebrations
Or anytime you want to bake something truly special
Take your time with it, enjoy the process, and have fun—it really is a joy to make.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this dessert is undeniably indulgent, it’s also about balance—sharing, celebrating, and savoring life’s sweet moments. Made with real ingredients and love, it’s a reminder that treating yourself mindfully is part of a happy, well-lived life.
If you’d like, I can also:
Shorten this for a social media post
Rewrite it for a cookbook or blog
Help script your video recipe
Just let me know
