Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Pie (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pie Filling

01 - 1 23 cm (9-inch) ready-made graham cracker pie crust
02 - 450 g cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
04 - 150 g granulated sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest, divided

→ Sour Cream Topping

07 - 240 ml sour cream
08 - 50 g granulated sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 175°C. Ensure cream cheese is softened and eggs are at room temperature.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs, 150 g sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and half of the lemon zest. Beat for 2–3 minutes until creamy.
03 - Pour the cream cheese mixture into the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
04 - Bake for 30–35 minutes until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
05 - While the pie bakes, mix sour cream, 50 g sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and remaining lemon zest until smooth in a small bowl.
06 - Remove pie from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
07 - Increase oven temperature to 232°C.
08 - Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the slightly cooled pie.
09 - Return pie to oven for 5 minutes.
10 - Allow pie to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
02 - Chilling overnight develops optimal texture and flavor.