Italian Lemon Cream Cake

Ingredients and Weight:

• For the Crust:
  • Graham cracker crumbs: 1 1/2 cups (150g)
  • Melted unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (113g)
• For the Lemon Cream Filling:
  • Cream cheese, softened: 8 ounces (226g)
  • Sugar: 1 cup (200g)
  • Lemon zest: 2 tablespoons
  • Lemon juice: 1/2 cup (120ml)
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)
• For the Italian Meringue:
  • Egg whites: 4 large
  • Sugar: 1 cup (200g)
  • Cream of tartar: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour

Difficulty Level:

3/5 (Medium)

Preparation Method Steps:

For the Crust: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. 3. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

For the Lemon Cream Filling: 1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. 2. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, then mix well. 3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cream cheese mixture.

For the Italian Meringue: 1. In a stand mixer, whip egg whites until foamy. 2. Gradually add sugar and cream of tartar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. 3. Add lemon juice and whip for 1 minute more.

Assemble the Cake: 1. Spread the lemon cream filling over the cooled crust. 2. Pipe the Italian meringue on top of the filling, creating swirls or peaks. 3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of the cake):

• Calories: 500
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Sugar: 45g
• Protein: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Sweet, tart, and creamy
• Moist graham cracker crust
• Fluffy and light Italian meringue
• Refreshing lemon flavor
• Perfect for any occasion

User Comments:

• "This cake is absolutely delicious! The lemon cream filling is tangy and smooth, and the Italian meringue is perfectly balanced." - Sarah W.
• "I love the combination of flavors in this cake. It's the perfect dessert for a summer gathering." - David R.
• "The Italian meringue is so light and airy, it melts in your mouth." - Emily J.

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before using.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Do not overbake the cake, as the meringue will become dry and brittle.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.