No-Bake Layered Lemon Creamsicle Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the lemon curd layer:
– ½ cup fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra thickness)
For the cheesecake filling:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– ¾ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
– 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
– 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin + 2 tablespoons warm water
For garnish:
– Whipped cream
– Fresh lemon slices
Instructions:
1. Prepare the crust
– In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch springform pan.
– Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
2. Make the lemon curd layer
– In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, egg yolks, and butter.
– Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
– If needed, dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and stir in for a thicker consistency.
– Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling
– In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
– Add vanilla extract and lemon extract (if using), mixing until combined.
– Dissolve gelatin in warm water and mix it into the cheesecake mixture.
– Gently fold in whipped cream until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the cheesecake layers
– Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
– Spoon the cooled lemon curd over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly.
– Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the lemon curd, smoothing the top.
– Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
5. Garnish and serve
– Pipe whipped cream swirls around the edges.
– Decorate with fresh lemon slices for a beautiful finish.
– Slice and enjoy this layered citrus dream!
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Chilling Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices