Delia Smith Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

Delve into the zesty world of Delia Smith's No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake, a dessert that promises simplicity, elegance, and a burst of citrus delight. This cheesecake, heralded for its creamy texture and rich flavor without the fuss of baking, is an ode to Delia Smith's culinary genius, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.

Brief Description of the Lemon Cheesecake Recipe This no-bake cheesecake from Delia Smith is celebrated for its creamy filling atop a crunchy base, combining the tangy zest of lemons with the richness of cream cheese and whipped cream. It's a dessert that stands out for its ease of preparation and the delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Cultural or Historical Context Delia Smith, a revered figure in British culinary arts, has long been admired for her straightforward and foolproof recipes. This Lemon Cheesecake recipe is no exception, embodying her approach to making gourmet experiences accessible to home cooks. Cheesecakes themselves have a rich history, with their origins tracing back to ancient Greece, but it's the no-bake versions that have gained popularity for their convenience and simplicity.

Ingredients List

• For the Crust:
  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (6 tablespoons)
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream cheese, softened (16 ounces)
  • Powdered sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Heavy whipping cream, cold (1 cup)
  • Cornstarch (1 teaspoon)

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin with the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then press into a pan.
2. For the filling, whip the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with cornstarch until stiff peaks form, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Spread the filling over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Storage and Reheating This cheesecake is perfect for preparing ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic or in a sealed container for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for 2-3 months, with thawing in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information A serving of this lemon cheesecake offers a balance of sweetness and tanginess, with calories primarily coming from the cream cheese and heavy cream, providing a good source of calcium and protein but also a significant amount of fat.

FAQ

• Can I make the cheesecake firmer? Yes, chilling it for an extended period helps it set better, enhancing the texture.
• What if my cheesecake base is too hard? This might be due to excessive butter or dense biscuits. Ensure a balanced crust and avoid overchilling.
• Can I heat up the no-bake cheesecake? It's not recommended, as heating can affect its texture. Serve it cold for the best experience.

Final Thoughts Delia Smith's No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake is a testament to the joy of simple, yet delicious desserts. It's a versatile dish that allows for various toppings and can be adapted to suit different tastes, making it a perfect addition to any dessert table. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this cheesecake promises a delightful culinary experience with every bite.

Original recipe by Delia Smith.

For more detailed instructions and additional tips, visit Delia Online and British Chefs Table​​​​.