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Mary Berry Lemon cheesecake on a ginger crust

Mary Berry's Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

Crushed gingersnaps bind with melted butter to create a warm, spiced base supporting a silky mascarpone filling brightened with fresh lemon juice and curd. This no-bake cheesecake delivers impressive results with minimal effort, topped with fresh raspberries and blueberries for vibrant color and tartness that balances sweetness perfectly.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 day
Servings: 10
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: British
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • Gingersnaps for the crust
  • Butter melted, for binding the crust
  • Mascarpone cheese
  • Lemon curd
  • Lemon juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • Fresh raspberries for decoration
  • Fresh blueberries for decoration
  • Confectioner’s sugar for dusting

Method
 

  1. Begin by preparing the ginger crust, which serves as the foundation for this no-bake dessert. Crush the gingersnaps into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  2. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared cake pan, ensuring an even layer but stopping at the sides to maintain the cheesecake’s clean presentation. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
  3. Next, create the luscious lemon filling by combining mascarpone cheese, lemon curd, and lemon juice in a bowl. Using a spatula or electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture reaches a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps.
  4. Gently spoon the filling onto the chilled gingersnap crust and level the top with the back of a spatula for an even finish. This is the critical step where the cheesecake comes together, so take care to distribute the filling evenly across the crust.
  5. Finally, refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours, though leaving it overnight up to 24 hours will allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly. When ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan and peel away the parchment paper before transferring it to a serving platter.
  6. Top with fresh raspberries and blueberries arranged decoratively across the surface, then dust lightly with confectioner’s sugar just before serving for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

What to Serve with Mary Berry Lemon Cheesecake

Once you’ve mastered the recipe and made it your own with variations, you’ll want to think about what pairs well alongside it. I’d recommend serving this cheesecake with a crisp dessert wine like Moscato or Riesling, which complements the bright lemon flavors beautifully. A sparkling prosecco works wonderfully too, adding effervescence that cuts through the richness of the mascarpone.
For non-alcoholic options, consider serving it with Earl Grey tea or a light herbal infusion. You might also offer a simple berry coulis on the side—it’ll enhance the fresh fruit garnish already adorning your cheesecake.
If you’re plating individual slices, add a quenelle of whipped cream or crème fraîche alongside. These pairings elevate your presentation while letting the lemon-ginger profile remain the star of the dessert.