Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my all-time favorite dessert: Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake! I first discovered this scrumptious treat at a little coffee shop down the street. The moment I took a bite, I was hooked! The tangy lemon paired with luscious raspberries, all nestled inside a creamy, dreamy cheesecake—my mouth is watering just thinking about it!
This dessert has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of summer picnics with family, where we would all share slices of this beauty while basking in the sun (and trying to keep the ants away!). If you’re looking for a dessert that wows and is surprisingly easy to whip up, you’re in for a treat with this Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake!
What’s in Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake?
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This will be the base of our cheesecake crust. You can use store-bought crumbs or crush some graham crackers yourself – they add a delightful crunch to our creamy filling.
Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together, giving it that rich flavor and flaky texture.
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Full-fat cream cheese creates that rich, creamy consistency we all love in cheesecake.
Sugar: We need a little sweetness to balance the tanginess of the lemon and the tartness of the raspberries.
Eggs: These help set the cheesecake. They create a smooth and creamy texture when baked just right.
Fresh Lemons: I absolutely love using fresh lemon juice and zest for that bright, zesty flavor. It really elevates the whole dish!
Raspberries: Fresh or frozen, these add a pop of color and that beautiful tartness that contrasts perfectly with the sweet cheesecake.
Sour Cream: This is optional, but it adds a creamy tang that complements the cheesecake beautifully!
Is Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Good for You?
Now, don’t get me wrong, this dessert is indulgent, but who says we can’t have a little fun once in a while? Here’s the scoop on its health benefits:
Raspberries: These little gems are bursting with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber! They can help improve digestion and might even have cancer-fighting properties. Plus, they’re just so delicious!
Lemons: Packed with vitamin C, lemons can boost your immune system and even help with digestion. I always feel a bit healthier enjoying that zingy lemon!
Cream Cheese: While it adds richness, it does pack a caloric punch, so enjoy in moderation. You could consider using low-fat cream cheese if you want to lighten things up a bit.
Overall, this cheesecake is a lovely treat to share with loved ones, perfect for special occasions or just because!
Ingredients for Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ⅓ cup melted butter
– 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
– ½ cup sour cream (optional)
This recipe serves approximately 12 delightfully rich slices of cheesecake.
How to Make Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to form the crust. Bake for about 10 minutes and let it cool.
3. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix until creamy.
4. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the lemon juice and zest. Scrape down the sides to make sure everything is well incorporated.
5. Gently fold in the raspberries, being careful not to crush them. If you’re using sour cream, mix that in too.
6. Pour the creamy mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door to let the cheesecake cool slowly for about an hour.
8. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
9. Before serving, garnish with extra raspberries and perhaps a sprinkle of lemon zest for that extra flair!
Delicious Variations and Tips!
You can mix things up by adding a layer of raspberry puree on top before baking for a marbled effect. This cheesecake is also delightful served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Another tip: if you want to make it ahead of time, it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to wrap it tightly and let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
I can’t express how much joy this cheesecake brings to any gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and creamy masterpiece that is Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake! When you do, don’t forget to share your thoughts or any variations you tried—I just love hearing from fellow food lovers! Happy baking!