These lemon meringue cheesecakes offer the perfect balance of creamy richness and zesty citrus flavor. Combining the classic elements of cheesecake with the sweet and airy texture of meringue, this dessert is ideal for any occasion. The graham cracker crust adds a crunchy base, while the mini marshmallows melt into a golden-brown topping for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 3 tbsp sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined muffin tin to form crusts.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crusts and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top each cheesecake with mini marshmallows. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
- Allow to cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Enjoy your delicious lemon meringue cheesecakes!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (includes cooling and refrigerating time)
Variations
- Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Top your cheesecakes with fresh blueberries for an extra burst of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts: If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can bake this in tart pans to make individual-sized tarts.
- No-Melt Meringue: For a firmer meringue, replace mini marshmallows with traditional meringue that can be piped on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: These cheesecakes are best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply take them out of the fridge for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
10 FAQs
- Can I use full-fat cream cheese? Yes, full-fat cream cheese is ideal for a rich and creamy texture, but you can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer.
- How can I make the crust firmer? Press the graham cracker crumbs more firmly into the muffin tin to create a sturdier crust. You can also bake the crust for an additional 5 minutes before adding the cheesecake mixture.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, these cheesecakes can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are well refrigerated.
- Can I freeze lemon meringue cheesecakes? Freezing may alter the texture of the cheesecake, but you can freeze them for up to a month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container.
- What can I use instead of mini marshmallows for the topping? You can replace the mini marshmallows with whipped cream for a lighter topping, or use a traditional meringue that you pipe and bake on top.
- What is the best way to serve lemon meringue cheesecakes? Serve them chilled after allowing them to cool completely. Garnish with fresh lemon zest or berries for an added touch.
- Can I make this recipe in a regular pie tin? Yes, you can use a regular pie tin instead of muffin tins, but the baking time may vary. Adjust as needed.
- How can I add more lemon flavor? Increase the lemon zest or add a teaspoon of lemon extract for a more intense lemon flavor.
- Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust? Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust to save time.
- Is this recipe suitable for children? Yes, this recipe is great for kids, as the mini marshmallows provide a sweet and fun twist on the traditional meringue topping.
Conclusion
These lemon meringue cheesecakes are a delightful treat that brings together the best elements of two favorite desserts. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy lemon-infused cheesecake, and golden brown marshmallow topping, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a special occasion or just as a sweet indulgence, these cheesecakes are simple, yet elegant. Enjoy every bite!