| 3 Pounds Cream Cheese, Softened | 1 Tablespoon Almond Extract |
| 1 1/2 Cup Splenda (or 36 Packets) | 6 Eggs, Gently Stirred |
| 1/4 Cup Vanilla | Zest of 5 to 6 Medium Meyer Lemons, Optional |
Bring cream cheese to room temperature. This is a must.
Cheese cake comes out better when cooked in water bath. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. At start of preheat, place large pan of warm water on middle shelf of oven. Preheat will bring water up to correct temperature. This is easier than adding boiling water to pan after assembling the cheese cake.
Whip cream cheese and extracts. Add eggs one at a time and blend well. Add Splenda. Stir in lemon zest with wooden spoon. If adding in with beater, be advised it will stick to the beaters.
Line bottom of 9" springform pan with wax paper. Place springform pan inside silicone 9" cake pan, or surround springform pan with foil. This is to keep water from coming into cheese cake. Pour batter into lined pan.
Place cheese cake into water bath in oven. Bake at 350 degrees until done. Center will almost be set at this time. Do not over or under bake. Depending upon oven this should take approx. 55 - 65 minutes. Remove from oven. After cake has cooled, remove from pan and place on plate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate unit ready to use. Keeps approx. one week. Cheese cake can be frozen, but should be sliced before freezing and frozen in individually wrapped pieces. Freezing slices before wrapping is easier.
*Note: If not counting carbs, real sugar can be used and excellent results will still be had. Like wise, you can change out Splenda for your preferred sweetener.
2004 Original Recipe, Updated 2017 - Calla Ferre
