Lemon Cream Cheesecake with Crumb Topping Recipe

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Lemon Cream Cheesecake with Crumb Topping is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons. Topped with a crunchy crumb topping, this cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or as a refreshing treat to brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Cream Cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it a hit at any gathering. Plus, the crumb topping adds a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.

• Bright, zesty lemon flavor
• Creamy, rich texture
• Crunchy crumb topping
• Perfect for celebrations or a sweet indulgence
• Simple to make with accessible ingredients

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
• ½ cup additional graham cracker crumbs (for topping)

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheesecake

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour.
8. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled and set.
9. Before serving, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
10. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of graham cracker crumbs and sprinkle on top of the whipped cream for a delicious crumb topping.

Tips for the Best Results

• Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• Let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracks.
• For a firmer texture, refrigerate overnight before serving.

Easy Variations

• Substitute lime juice and zest for a lime cheesecake twist.
• Add fresh berries on top of the whipped cream for a fruity touch.
• Incorporate a swirl of raspberry or blueberry puree for added flavor and color.

What to Serve With It

• Fresh berries or fruit compote
• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
• Coffee or tea for a cozy pairing
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat.

Recipe Card