Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that captures the brightness of summer and the comfort of classic baking, look no further than this Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake. Every slice is silky, lush, and bursting with vibrant citrusy tang swirled together with sweet, juicy blueberries—all wrapped up in a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or treating yourself on a sunny afternoon, this cheesecake promises to be a refreshing showstopper you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake lies in the beauty of simple, everyday ingredients. Each one serves a purpose, from building a tender, flavorful base to lending sweetness, tanginess, and that irresistible pop of fruity color on top.

• Graham cracker crumbs (1½ cups): These classic crumbs provide a golden, toasty foundation that’s just sweet enough to balance the filling.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup for crust, 1 cup for filling, ¼ cup for topping): Sugar here does triple duty, sweetening the crust, the creamy filling, and the luscious berry topping.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Butter brings indulgent richness, holding the crust together and adding depth.
• Cream cheese (3 packages, 8 ounces each, softened): The heart of any cheesecake—make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending and a velvety texture.
• Eggs (3 large): Fresh eggs bind the filling, enriching it and helping it set into that dreamy, silky consistency.
• Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Zest gives a fragrant citrus lift that infuses both the aroma and the flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice (¼ cup plus 1 teaspoon): A squeeze of juice adds brightness to the filling and intensifies the blueberry topping.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash enhances all the flavors and smoothes out the tanginess.
• Sour cream (½ cup): This secret ingredient guarantees a rich, slightly tangy filling that melts in your mouth.
• Blueberries (2 cups, fresh or frozen): The crowning glory—juicy, sweet-tart, and vibrant for a fabulous topping.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Cornstarch thickens the blueberry topping to luscious perfection without clouding the flavors.
• Water (2 tablespoons): Just enough to help the berries break down and blend seamlessly with the sugar and cornstarch for a glossy finish.

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan—use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup for a perfectly even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set the pan aside to cool while you assemble the filling. This step creates a crisp, buttery base that holds up beautifully under the creamy layers to come.

Step 2: Blend the Cheesecake Filling

Grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is absolutely smooth and creamy—take your time here, as lumps now will linger in the final product. Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Next, gently mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sour cream. This luscious blend is the backbone of our Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake, marrying tang, richness, and that signature citrus freshness.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the silky filling over the cooled crust, using a spatula to smooth the top so your cheesecake bakes up beautifully even. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the outer edges look set and the center still wobbles ever so slightly—like a gentle jiggle, not a slosh. Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. This slow cooling step helps prevent cracks and ensures a creamy, even texture throughout.

Step 4: Chill to Perfection

After that hour, let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Then, cover and chill the whole masterpiece in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!). Chilling is the secret to a perfect Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake—it sets the texture and makes those flavors pop.

Step 5: Make the Blueberry Topping

While the cheesecake chills, stir together blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and a teaspoon of lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it cook, stirring often, for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the mixture is thickened, glossy, and bubbling gently. Remove from heat and let it cool—by the time your cheesecake is perfectly chilled, the topping will be too!

Step 6: Add the Topping and Serve

Finally, spoon that gorgeous homemade blueberry topping over your chilled cheesecake, letting those bright berries cascade naturally. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s faces light up at the first taste of this spectacular Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake

Garnishes

For a stunning finish, sprinkle a handful of fresh blueberries or a few thin lemon slices over the top just before serving. A dusting of powdered sugar or a tuft of whipped cream can add a touch of elegance that makes your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake look as fabulous as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Pair your cheesecake with a light, crisp glass of sparkling wine or a delicate cup of Earl Grey tea. If you’re serving a crowd, offer a platter of fresh berries or a citrusy fruit salad alongside; they’ll both complement the creamy richness without overpowering those lovely lemon and blueberry notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake into dainty bars for a picnic-friendly treat, or cut into mini rounds using a biscuit cutter for an elegant dessert buffet display. You can even layer small cubes into parfait glasses with extra blueberry topping, whipped cream, and lemon zest for a playful twist on a classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover leftover Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for savoring a sweet treat all week long.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices tightly (or the whole cheesecake if you’re planning ahead) in a double layer of plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. The cheesecake base and blueberry topping both freeze wonderfully; just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best served cold or at cool room temperature, so no reheating needed! But if you prefer a slightly warmer topping, spoon the blueberry sauce into a small saucepan and gently warm it over low heat before drizzling over your cheesecake slices.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for the topping?

Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen blueberries work beautifully for the topping. If using frozen, you may need to cook the sauce an extra minute or two to reach that perfect thickness.

What’s the secret to a crack-free cheesecake?

Letting the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake cool slowly is key—after baking, crack the oven door and let the cheesecake rest for an hour before removing. Also, make sure not to over-mix the batter, as too much air can cause cracks.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust! The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice.

How far ahead can I make the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake?

You can make the cheesecake, including the topping, up to 2 days in advance. The flavors deepen and the texture sets even better with a little extra chill time—just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake cleanly?

Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This helps you get those beautiful, neat slices that showcase the creamy filling and vibrant blueberry topping.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake is a burst of sunshine on your table, ready to delight family, friends, or just your own sweet tooth. Give it a try—you might just find it’s your new favorite way to celebrate life’s simple, zesty pleasures!

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