Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

**Instructions**:

1. **Make the Crust**:
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
– In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
– Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Filling**:
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
– Add the sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until combined.
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
– Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
– Bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes at 325°F (163°C) until the edges are set, and the center is just slightly jiggly.
– Once done, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This will help prevent cracks. Afterward, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

3. **Make the Lemon Curd**:
– In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
– In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add a small amount of the warm lemon mixture to the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
– Slowly pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining lemon mixture.
– Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the curd thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the cubed butter until smooth.
– Transfer the curd to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.

4. **Prepare the Meringue**:
– In a large, clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
– Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy and smooth.

5. **Assemble the Cheesecake**:
– Once the cheesecake has cooled and set, spread the lemon curd evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
– Carefully spoon the meringue on top of the lemon curd, spreading it out to cover the entire surface and create decorative peaks.
– Use a kitchen torch or broil the cheesecake in the oven for 2-3 minutes to lightly brown the meringue. Watch closely to avoid burning.

6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before slicing. The meringue should be fluffy and slightly golden, while the cheesecake underneath remains creamy and tangy with a zesty lemon kick.

#### Tips for the Perfect Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

1. **Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake**: When mixing the cheesecake filling, be careful not to overbeat the batter, especially after adding the eggs. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in the finished cheesecake.

2. **Chill the Cheesecake Thoroughly**: For the best texture, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld and ensures the cheesecake is fully set.

3. **Make Sure the Meringue Is Stiff**: When making the meringue, ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks. This will help the meringue hold its shape and create that beautiful, fluffy texture.

4. **Use Fresh Lemons**: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice can be too bitter and lacks the fresh, zesty flavor that makes this dessert shine.

5. **Serve with Garnishes**: For added flair, garnish the cheesecake with extra lemon zest, fresh berries, or mint leaves.

#### Conclusion: A Show-Stopping Dessert

**Lemon Meringue Cheesecake** is a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet elements that will impress any crowd. With its luscious cheesecake filling, zesty lemon curd, and light, golden meringue topping, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, birthday celebration, or simply as a treat for yourself, this cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.