A luscious and creamy cheesecake infused with tangy lemon and studded with fresh blueberries, all atop a classic graham cracker crust and finished with a homemade blueberry sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates a refreshing and delicious balance.
- Creamy and Smooth: A rich, velvety cheesecake texture that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: An elegant dessert that’s sure to impress guests.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until serving.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2¼ cups (302g) graham cracker crumbs
- 10 tablespoons (140g) salted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons (39g) sugar
For the Lemon Blueberry Filling:
- 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (173g) sour cream
- 6 tablespoons (90ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1½ cups (225g) fresh blueberries
For the Blueberry Topping:
- ¼ cup (52g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 2 cups (277g) fresh blueberries
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup (58g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Lemon slices, for decorating (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with parchment paper in the bottom and grease the sides.
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a small bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Cover the outsides of the pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from the water bath from seeping in. Set prepared pan aside.
2. Prepare the Lemon Blueberry Filling:
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and flour on low speed until completely combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing on low speed until well combined.
- Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing slowly to combine after each addition.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with enough warm water to reach halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for 30 minutes.
- Crack the oven door and allow the cheesecake to cool for an additional 30 minutes.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate until firm, about 5-6 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Blueberry Topping:
- Combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the blueberries and cook until the berries begin to release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
5. Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Whip on high speed until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and firm, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
- Spread the blueberry topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Pipe or dollop the whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake.
- Garnish with lemon slices, if desired.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-14
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Berry Swap: Use raspberries or strawberries instead of blueberries for a different twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a bit more lemon zest for a stronger citrus punch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the blueberry topping for a decadent finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serving: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them before adding to prevent excess moisture.
2. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A deep-dish pie pan can work, but removal will be trickier.
3. Do I have to use a water bath?
Yes, it helps prevent cracks and ensures a smooth texture.
4. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.
5. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
6. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Use a water bath and don’t overmix the batter.
7. Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Yes, it will provide a similar tangy flavor.
8. What should I do if my cheesecake doesn’t set?
Chill it longer; overnight is best for firmness.
9. Can I make mini cheesecakes with this recipe?
Yes, adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for cupcake-sized cheesecakes.
10. Can I skip the whipped cream topping?
Yes, but it adds a light, airy texture that complements the cheesecake.
Conclusion
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake is a delightful, creamy dessert bursting with fresh flavors. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday indulgence, this cheesecake is sure to impress with its luscious texture and refreshing taste. Enjoy!
Print
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake
- Total Time: 7 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12–14 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luscious and creamy lemon blueberry cheesecake with a tangy citrus flavor, fresh blueberries, and a homemade blueberry topping, all on a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2¼ cups (302g) graham cracker crumbs
- 10 tablespoons (140g) salted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons (39g) sugar
For the Lemon Blueberry Filling:
- 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (173g) sour cream
- 6 tablespoons (90ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1½ cups (225g) fresh blueberries
For the Blueberry Topping:
- ¼ cup (52g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 2 cups (277g) fresh blueberries
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup (58g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Lemon slices, for decorating (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and grease the sides.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press into the bottom and sides of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- Cover the outside of the pan with foil to prevent water seepage in the water bath.
Prepare the Lemon Blueberry Filling:
- Lower oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and flour on low until smooth.
- Add sour cream, lemon juice, and zest, mixing until combined.
- Add eggs and yolks one at a time, mixing slowly.
- Gently fold in blueberries and pour batter into the crust.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in a roasting pan. Add warm water to the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.
- Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Turn off oven, leaving cheesecake inside for 30 minutes. Then crack the door open and cool for another 30 minutes.
- Remove from water bath and refrigerate for 5-6 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Blueberry Topping:
- Heat sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth.
- Add blueberries and cook until juices release and mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Let cool.
Prepare the Whipped Cream:
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Remove cheesecake from the pan and place on a serving plate.
- Spread blueberry topping over the cheesecake.
- Pipe or dollop whipped cream around the edges.
- Garnish with lemon slices if desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries for the topping.
- For a firmer texture, let the cheesecake chill overnight.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American