Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.33 cups granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 0.33 cups sour cream
  • 2 lemons zest
  • 0.5 cups fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 leaves fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
  • 1 slices lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed using an electric mixer.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Blend in the sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  5. Pour the filling over the cooled graham cracker crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  6. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cheesecake squares cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
  7. Once cooled and set, cut the cheesecake into squares. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices if desired.

💡 Chef's Notes

For best results, refrigerate overnight before serving.

Recipe by Eleanor Whitford - Culinary Writer