Ricotta Lemon Cheesecake

Ricotta Lemon Cheesecake offers a refreshing twist on the classic cheesecake. With a creamy ricotta filling, a hint of citrus from the lemon juice and zest, and a crisp graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice after dinner, it’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Graham cracker crust

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture into graham cracker crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until center is set.
7. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours (including refrigeration)

Variations

• Berry Topping: Top with fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for added flavor and color.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free graham cracker crust or almond flour crust to make this cheesecake gluten-free.
• Lemon Curd: Add a layer of lemon curd on top of the cheesecake before serving for a more intense lemon flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle some melted chocolate over the cheesecake before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: This cheesecake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
• Reheating: Since this cheesecake is served chilled, it does not require reheating. Just remove from the fridge 10-15 minutes before serving if you’d like it to be slightly less cold.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta? While ricotta is traditional in this recipe, you could substitute it with cream cheese for a richer, denser texture.
2. Can I make this cheesecake without a crust? Yes, you can make a crustless cheesecake, but the texture may be a bit different. You’ll also need to adjust the baking time slightly.
3. Can I use store-bought lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice will give a better flavor, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, store-bought lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done? The cheesecake should be set in the center, but it may still have a slight jiggle. Once it’s cooled and refrigerated, it will firm up completely.
5. Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger flavor? Yes, you can add more lemon zest to increase the lemon flavor, but be cautious as too much can make the cheesecake bitter.
6. Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar substitute? Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just be sure to check the equivalent measurements on the product packaging.
7. Can I bake this cheesecake in a different pan? Yes, you can bake this cheesecake in a springform pan or a tart pan. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pan size.
8. Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free? For a dairy-free version, substitute the ricotta with a dairy-free cheese or a cashew-based cheesecake filling.
9. Can I use a store-bought crust? Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust is a convenient option and will work just fine.
10. How long should I refrigerate the cheesecake? Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but overnight refrigeration will give it the best texture.

Conclusion

Ricotta Lemon Cheesecake is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and refreshing flavors. The lightness of the ricotta combined with the brightness of lemon creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and not too heavy. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just for a treat, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert whenever you want a taste of something both sweet and refreshing!

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