Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp (1.5g) salt
- 16 oz (450g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup (100g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp (2.5g) lemon zest
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan using the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure a flat, compacted surface.
- Place the pan in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up while preparing the filling.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free.
- Fold in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest using a spatula until fully integrated.
- In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in three batches using a slow over-and-under motion to maintain aeration.
- Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Run a thin knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform latch to serve.