Lemony Cheesecake

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A refreshing lemon-flavored cheesecake featuring tangy gelatin and creamy topping, perfect for light desserts or summer gatherings that appeal to citrus lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (3 oz.) pkg. lemon gelatin
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
  • 2 cups prepared whipped topping
  • 1 graham pie crust

Instructions

  1. Dissolve lemon gelatin in boiling water.
  2. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  4. Fold in the prepared whipped topping until well blended.
  5. Pour the gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture and stir until combined.
  6. Pour the filling into the graham pie crust.
  7. Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a flavored whipped topping, like vanilla or lemon. If you're out of lemon gelatin, lime gelatin can be a good substitute, providing a similar tartness. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smoother blending. For a twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a drizzle of lemon curd for added flair. This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. For a delightful dessert spread, consider serving alongside the Cherry Deluxe Pie or Cream Cheese Cherry O' Pie for a refreshing variety.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing the cheesecake as it may become watery upon thawing. If needed, re-chill individual slices slightly before serving for the best experience.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemony Cheesecake contains roughly 461 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 537mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).

461 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.7g 15% DV
Total Fat 24.3g 31% DV
Carbs 54.7g 20% DV
Fiber 3.2g 11% DV
Sugar 25g 50% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 536.5mg 23% DV
Potassium 195.9mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 27mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 201.4mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 46.2mg 4% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
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?

Yes! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is properly covered and stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. This makes it a perfect dessert for gatherings or special occasions.

What can I use instead of a graham pie crust?

If you prefer a different crust, you can use an Oreo crust or a homemade crust made from crushed cookies and butter. Alternatively, a gluten-free crust can be made using almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for those with dietary restrictions.

How do I know when the cheesecake is set?

The cheesecake is set when it is firm to the touch and has a slight jiggle in the center. It should not be liquid. Refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight is recommended to achieve the ideal texture.

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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