Express Cheeseckae

Express Cheesecake

3 8 oz. packages cream cheese

1 1/2 cups sugar

4 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 prepared crusts

Graham Cracker Crust

3 1/2 cups finely ground graham crackers

1/3 cup finely chopped nuts, preferably almond or hazelnut

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 1/4 cup melted butter

Mix the crackers, nuts and cinnamon together.  Blend the butter into the mixture until it is evenly incorporated.  Press into 2 glass pie dishes.  Set aside.  You can also utilize a pre-made crust if you are pressed for time.

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.  Cream the sugar and the cream cheese on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.  Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.  Now add the vanilla and the lemon juice, blending on medium-high speed until incorporated.  The mixture should be smooth and resemble pudding.  Pour the mixture into a prepared crust.  Bake for 40 minutes.  

Remove the cheesecakes from the oven and  place immediately in the refrigerator to cool slightly while you prepare the topping.

 Topping

2 cups sour cream

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well blended.  Spread the topping evenly over each cheesecake and bake for 5 additional minutes.  Now, chill the cakes for at least 2 hours.  Serve these cheesecakes alone or with your favorite garnish.