Description
These Mini Lemon Meringue Cheesecakes combine the smooth richness of cheesecake with the tart freshness of lemon, topped off with a perfectly sweet and fluffy meringue. A mini treat that packs big flavor, these bite-sized desserts are perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a zesty, creamy dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
Cheesecake:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup lemon curd
Meringue:
- 2 egg whites
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, 3 tbsp sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheesecakes are set.
- Remove the cheesecakes from the oven and let them cool completely. Once cooled, spread a layer of lemon curd on top of each cheesecake.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the 1/4 cup sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Pipe or spread the meringue over the lemon curd layer, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the meringue from shrinking during baking.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Let the cheesecakes cool completely before serving.
Notes
- If you want to prepare these ahead of time, you can make the cheesecakes and meringue the day before and refrigerate them.
- For extra flair, garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries before serving.
- If you’re short on time, store-bought lemon curd can be used for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes