01 -
Turn oven to 375°F and position the rack a bit lower than the center. Wrap the outside of a 9- or 10-inch springform pan with foil, using two layers for safety. Spray the inside with nonstick spray.
02 -
Combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Press mixture firmly into the pan bottom until even. Bake it for 10 minutes. Let it cool while you move on to the next step.
03 -
Bring oven heat down to 325°F. Start heating water using a kettle.
04 -
Use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, sugar, and flour until smooth, about a minute. At a low speed, mix in vanilla, lemon zest, juice, and salt until it all comes together. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each. Finally, stir in sour cream gently until it’s all mixed.
05 -
Set your springform pan into a big roasting pan. Pour the filling on top of the crust. Pour boiled water into the roasting pan, letting it come about an inch up the sides. Bake for 1 hour and 30-45 minutes, just until the middle has a light jiggle. Let cool for 45 minutes in the water, remove foil, and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours.