Easiest Lemon Cheesecake Dessert (Print View)
Creamy lemon filling with graham base, topped with whipped cream and zest, chilled to perfection.
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Crust
01 -
2 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ For the Filling
03 -
1 package (3 oz) lemon flavored gelatin dessert mix
04 -
1 cup hot water
05 -
16 oz cream cheese, softened
06 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 -
1/2 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
08 -
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 -
1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
→ Optional Garnishes
10 -
Whipped cream, for serving
11 -
Additional lemon zest, for serving
12 -
Lemon slices, for serving
# Directions:
01 -
Line the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and set aside.
02 -
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and stir until thoroughly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and about 2.5 cm up the sides of the prepared pan using a measuring cup or flat-bottomed glass.
03 -
In a heatproof bowl, whisk lemon gelatin dessert mix with hot water until fully dissolved. Allow to cool at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.
04 -
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
05 -
Add lemon zest and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and blend until evenly incorporated.
06 -
Gradually add cooled gelatin mixture in batches of approximately 1/8 cup, mixing on low speed between each addition and scraping the bowl as needed, until smooth and fully combined.
07 -
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese and gelatin mixture using a spatula until no streaks remain.
08 -
Spread the filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with an offset spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
09 -
Before serving, remove from the pan and decorate with whipped cream, additional lemon zest, and lemon slices, if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure the gelatin mixture is fully cooled before combining with the cream cheese to prevent lumps in the filling.