Lemon Cream Cheese Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into Tart Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add Sour Cream, Lemon Juice, Zest, and Vanilla: Mix in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Tart

1. Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the cream cheese filling into the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
2. Bake: Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
3. Cool: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

1. Combine Lemon Juice, Sugar, Cornstarch, and Water: In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
2. Cook Until Thickened: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Butter: Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and the glaze is smooth.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the glaze cool for a few minutes, then pour it over the chilled tart, spreading it evenly over the top.

Step 5: Serve

1. Chill the Tart: Refrigerate the tart for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the glaze is set and the tart is fully chilled.
2. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, lemon slices, and fresh mint leaves if desired.

Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Tart

• Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can have a different taste.
• Cooling Time: Allow the tart to cool completely and chill in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of the creamy, tangy lemon filling and the crunchy, buttery crust creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The lemon glaze adds an extra burst of citrus flavor and a beautiful glossy finish. This tart is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Variations to Try

• Berry Lemon Tart: Add a layer of fresh berries on top of the lemon filling before adding the glaze.
• Lime Cream Cheese Tart: Substitute lime juice and zest for the lemon to create a lime version of this tart.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top of the glaze for a decorative touch.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• As a Party Dessert: This tart makes an impressive dessert for any gathering or special occasion.

Enjoy making and savoring this Lemon Cream Cheese Tart, a dessert that is sure to impress with its perfect balance of flavors and beautiful presentation!