Triple Crown Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. 1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
   2. Mix crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter.
   3. Press into a 9-inch springform pan (bottom only).
   4. Bake for 10 minutes, remove, and cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. 1. Beat cream cheese, mascarpone, and sour cream until super smooth.
   2. Add sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, salt, and egg yolks. Mix until well blended.
   3. Add flour and mix gently.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

1. 1. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
   2. Gradually add 2 tbsp sugar, beating until stiff glossy peaks.

Step 4: Combine for Lightness

1. 1. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cream cheese batter in 3 batches.
   2. Use a spatula and fold carefully to keep the air.

Step 5: Bake (Basque Burnt Style)

1. 1. Increase oven temp to 425°F (220°C).
   2. Line the pan (including sides) with parchment paper, letting it overhang.
   3. Pour in the batter.
   4. Bake for 35–45 minutes until the top is deeply browned and cracked, but center still jiggles slightly.

Step 6: Chill

• • Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.