Lemon and Blueberry Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy and bright flavors of lemon with the sweet and juicy burst of blueberries. It is a luscious and indulgent treat that marries the richness of cream cheese with the zesty freshness of lemon and the natural sweetness of blueberries.

The history of cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, where it was a popular dish served to athletes during the first Olympic games in 776 BC. Over the centuries, variations of cheesecake have appeared in different cultures, with different regions adopting their own unique ingredients and techniques.

The modern concept of cheesecake, particularly the New York-style cheesecake, became widely popular in the United States during the 20th century. In the 1900s, cream cheese was introduced by James L. Kraft, and it eventually became a staple ingredient for making cheesecake. The classic American cheesecake, characterized by its smooth and creamy texture, evolved into a canvas for incorporating various flavors and toppings, including lemon and blueberries.

INGREDIENTS

Blueberry Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 packages (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 eggs
• 1 1/3 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• Juice of one Meyer lemon
• Zest from one Meyer lemon

INSTRUCTIONS

Blueberry Sauce:

1. The sauce can be made while the cake is cooking or in advance.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, water, and sugar. Stir frequently, being careful not to crush the berries. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until combined.
4. Slowly stir the cornstarch mixture into the blueberries, being gentle not to crush them. Simmer until the homemade blueberry sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a metal spoon, approximately 10 minutes.
5. Remove the sauce from heat and gently stir in the vanilla.
6. Let the sauce cool at room temperature. Measure 1/2 cup for your recipe, and store the rest in jars in the fridge.

Crust:

1. In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and granulated sugar using a rubber spatula until combined.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform cake pan and slightly up the sides. Ensure it is tight and compact.
3. Chill the crust for 15 minutes.

Cheesecake Filling:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat cream cheese on medium speed until fluffy. Add the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and beat until combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until just combined after each addition. On low speed, beat in sour cream just until combined.
4. Remove the crust from the fridge and pour the cheesecake batter into it.
5. Pour the blueberry sauce over the cheesecake in circles, and using the edge of a spatula, create swirls and mix the blueberry sauce into the cheesecake filling carefully, being cautious not to overmix.
6. Bake the cheesecake for about 1 1/4 hours or until the center is almost set.
7. Cool the cheesecake on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Sprinkle graham crackers on top and loosen the sides of the pan. Continue cooling on a wire rack until the cheesecake reaches room temperature.
8. Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours before serving.
9. The cheesecake can be served with warm blueberry sauce.
10. Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator.

Lemon and Blueberry Cheesecake is a divine dessert that blends the zesty citrus flavor of lemon with the sweet and tart taste of blueberries. Perfect for any special occasion or simply to indulge in a delightful treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress and delight anyone who tastes it. The combination of creamy cheesecake, tangy lemon, and juicy blueberries creates a truly unforgettable dessert experience.