Prep your pan: Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment. Lightly grease the sides.
Make the crust: In a bowl, mix almond flour, sweetener, salt, cinnamon, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until it resembles damp sand and holds when pressed.
Press and set: Firmly press the crust into the pan in an even layer.
For the baked version, pre-bake at 325°F (165°C) for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. For no-bake, chill the crust for 15 minutes.
Soften cream cheese: Make sure it’s truly soft. Let it sit at room temp for 45–60 minutes.
This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth filling.
Beat the base: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-low, beat cream cheese with sweetener and salt until smooth, about 1–2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl.
Add flavor: Mix in sour cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and zest. Blend until creamy and cohesive.
Do not overbeat.
For the baked version: Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed just until incorporated. Overmixing adds air and can cause cracks.
Pour filling over the pre-baked crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 45–60 minutes.
The edges should be set and the center slightly wobbly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 30 minutes. Then cool at room temperature for another hour.
Chill, covered, for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before slicing.
For the no-bake version: Optional gelatin step: Sprinkle gelatin over cold water. Let bloom 5 minutes.
Warm gently until dissolved and clear. Cool slightly.
Whip the heavy cream to soft-medium peaks.
Whisk the cooled gelatin into the cream cheese mixture (if using). Gently fold whipped cream into the filling in two additions.
Spread filling over the chilled crust.
Smooth the top. Chill at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until firm.
Slice and serve: Run a thin knife around the pan before releasing the ring. Warm your knife under hot water and wipe between slices for clean cuts.