1 c. graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp. butter, melted
3 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
3/4 c. sugar
5 tsp. lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp. lemon peel
1 tsp. vanilla
3 eggs, separated

Combine crumbs and butter; press into bottom of springform pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 10 minutes. Combine cheese, sugar, juice, peel and vanilla, mixing at medium speed on mixer until well blended. Add egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into cream cheese mixture. Pour over crust. Bake at 300 degrees for 45 minutes. Loosen cake from rim of pan. Chill. Top with cherry pie filling or fresh fruit, if desired.