Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup (75g) granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 30 oz (850g) whole-milk ricotta cheese, strained overnight
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large (150g) eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp (6g) lemon zest, finely grated
- 2 tbsp (16g) cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, 75g granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using the base of a measuring cup.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until toasted and fragrant, then set aside to cool.
- Place the strained ricotta in a food processor and pulse until completely smooth.
- Add 200g granulated sugar, lemon zest, vanilla, and salt; process until integrated.
- Add eggs one at a time, pulsing just until combined.
- Sift in the cornstarch and pulse for 5 seconds, ensuring the batter is not overmixed.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and mahogany-colored, but the center still has a slight wobble.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, leaving the cake inside for 30 minutes to cool gradually.
- Remove from oven, cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours before serving.