Lemonly Cheesecake

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

Lemony cheesecake with a light, fluffy texture and tangy flavor, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for casual gatherings or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. boiling water
  • 1 small lemon Jell-O
  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
  • 1 (4 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
  • 1 c. sugar

Instructions

  1. Dissolve lemon Jell-O in boiling water and allow to jell slightly.
  2. Cream the cream cheese and sugar together.
  3. Add lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
  4. Whip together the Jell-O and cream cheese mixture.
  5. Fold in Cool Whip.
  6. Pour into crusts.
  7. Add fruit on top if desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with sugar. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also experiment with different flavors of Jell-O for a unique twist; raspberry or orange would work well. If you can't find the specific Jell-O, using a similar gel dessert can be a great substitute.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for added flavor. Consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as Marinated Veg. Salad, to balance the sweetness. For a special touch, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving. It also makes a delightful dessert for summer gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best served chilled, so you don’t need to reheat it. If the cheesecake has been topped with fresh fruit, consume within a day to maintain freshness. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemonly Cheesecake contains roughly 350 calories, with 12g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

350 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.8g 24% DV
Total Fat 1.8g 2% DV
Carbs 80.2g 29% DV
Fiber 11.6g 41% DV
Sugar 12.4g 25% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 156.2mg 7% DV
Potassium 894mg 19% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 63.6mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 25.8mg 29% DV
Calcium 98.4mg 8% DV
Iron 6.8mg 38% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is well-covered and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even more delicious dessert when served.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer a lighter version. While the texture may be slightly different, it will still yield a delicious cheesecake. Just be mindful that it may not hold up as well in terms of structure.

What kind of crust works best for this cheesecake?

A graham cracker crust is traditional and complements the lemon flavor perfectly. However, if you prefer a different base, a shortbread or even an Oreo crust can add a delightful twist. Just make sure to pre-bake the crust for the best results.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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