Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe | Easy Summer Treat

Looking for the perfect summer cheesecake recipe that’s creamy, tangy, fruity, and irresistibly elegant? This Summer Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake is a showstopping dessert that combines the rich, velvety texture of classic cheesecake with a refreshing citrus twist and a vibrant raspberry glaze.

Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, Mother’s Day brunch, or just need a fresh fruit dessert to brighten your day, this easy homemade cheesecake is bursting with summer flavor and designed to impress every guest. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients, detailed instructions, and comes out perfect every time—even for beginners!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake

• No-fail, beginner-friendly instructions
• Only 30 minutes of prep!
• Lemon zest and juice add a refreshing zing
• Fresh or frozen raspberries work perfectly
• Ideal for make-ahead dessert recipes
• Restaurant-quality presentation at home
• Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet

Whether you searched for “best cheesecake recipe for summer”, “easy lemon raspberry cheesecake”, or “homemade fruit-topped cheesecake”, this recipe is crafted to be the answer.

Ingredients for the Best Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake

For the Crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Gluten-free option: use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for a nutty twist.

For the Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Filling

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (about 2 cups)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.

For the Raspberry Glaze Topping

• 2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen)
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Decoration

• ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• Lemon slices (from 1 lemon)
• Optional: white chocolate curls

How to Make Summer Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake – Step-by-Step

Prep & Tools You’ll Need

• 9-inch springform pan
• Hand or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Baking tray for water bath

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Grease and line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
4. Press into the bottom of the pan to form a firm crust. Use a flat glass or spoon.
5. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
2. Add sugar, mix until fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl after each addition.
4. Stir in sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the chilled crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
2. Place the springform pan into a larger baking tray. Add hot water around it to create a water bath (prevents cracking).
3. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour inside.
5. Remove, cover with foil, and chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Raspberry Glaze

1. In a saucepan, heat raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
2. Once bubbling, stir in the cornstarch-water slurry.
3. Stir continuously until thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble & Decorate

1. Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread raspberry glaze evenly on top.
2. Pipe whipped cream around the edges.
3. Decorate with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and optional white chocolate curls.
4. Chill until ready to serve. Slice & enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake

• Room temp ingredients = ultra-smooth batter.
• Bake in a water bath to prevent cracks.
• Don’t overmix the batter—incorporate gently after eggs.
• Use zest from organic lemons for better flavor.
• Want mini cheesecakes? Use a muffin tin with liners and adjust bake time to ~20 minutes.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake

• Pair with a glass of sparkling lemonade .
• Serve with fresh mint leaves for a fancy touch.
• For summer brunch, serve it alongside fruit salad or berry compote.

Try pairing it with our Strawberry Piña Colada Smoothie Recipe – Refreshing Drink

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: 430 kcal
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 7g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 210mg

Values are approximate. Adjust based on substitutions.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze whole (without glaze) or individual slices for up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic + foil.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating:

• Cheesecake is best served chilled, but let it sit out for 15 minutes before serving for best texture.

FAQs – Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake

Q: Can I freeze lemon raspberry cheesecake?

A: Yes! Freeze slices or the whole cake (without glaze) for up to 2 months.

Q: What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?

A: Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or crushed shortbread work well.

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

A: Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Q: How do I prevent cheesecake cracks?

A: Always bake in a water bath, avoid overmixing, and let it cool slowly in the oven.

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

A: Absolutely. It’s actually better made the day before and chilled overnight.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Peach Cobbler Poke Cake – Easy Creamy Dessert Recipe
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake – Easy Dessert Idea
• No Bake Peanut Butter Pie – Easy Chocolate Dessert Idea

Conclusion – Your New Go-To Summer Dessert!

Now that you know how to make the best Summer Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake at home, you’re ready to wow your guests with this easy, elegant, and unforgettable dessert. From the buttery crust to the zesty filling and vibrant glaze, it’s a celebration of summer in every bite.

Tried it? Leave a comment and tell us how it turned out! Share your photos on social media and tag us!

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