Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake
Ricotta replaces some of the cream cheese in this cheesecake, giving it a lighter body and a slightly grainy texture that sets it apart from the standard version. Fresh lemon zest and juice run through the filling, keeping the flavor bright rather than heavy. The bake time is about 55 minutes, with additional chilling time needed before serving.
Equipment
- Springform pan
- Electric Mixer
- Mixing Bowls
- Zester
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Base:
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs organic if possible
- 0.25 cups melted butter unsalted
For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese full-fat, fresh
- 1 cups cream cheese softened
- 3 large eggs organic if possible
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoons lemon zest freshly grated
- 0.5 cups lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoons vanilla extract pure
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan lightly with butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
- Using an electric mixer, beat together ricotta cheese and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the granulated sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
- Blend in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next.
- Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. A slight browning might occur along the edges.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Notes
- For a lighter twist, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
- To enhance lemon flavor, consider adding a couple of drops of lemon extract.
Nutrition
Calories: 453kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 12gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 273mgPotassium: 176mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 937IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 183mgIron: 1mg
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