Lemon Cheese Cake

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 eggs
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 package cream cheese (8oz)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh fruit of choice for topping (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and lemon zest. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fold it into the cake mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan.
7. If desired, top with fresh fruit.
8. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool before serving.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming the cake is cut into 8 pieces) Calories: Approx. 350 calories per slice (depending on the added toppings) Fat: Approx. 18g Carbohydrates: Approx. 45g Protein: Approx. 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and rich texture due to the combination of cream cheese and lemon.
• Sweet and sour taste from the lemon juice and zest.
• Versatile dish as it can be served plain or with a variety of fresh fruit toppings.

User Comments:

1. "This Lemon Cheese Cake was a hit at my party! The combination of flavors was amazing." - John Doe
2. "The texture was so creamy and smooth, definitely a keeper." - Jane Smith
3. "I added fresh strawberries on top, it made the cake even more delicious." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure to use room temperature eggs when baking to ensure proper rising of the cake.
• Do not overbake or the cake may become dry and crumbly. Check for doneness after 40 minutes of baking.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor results. If using store-bought lemon juice, make sure it is not concentrated.