Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease an 8-inch springform pan. Wrap the bottom and sides of the pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from entering during the water bath.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 3: Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and sifted cornstarch until the mixture for your french cheesecake easy elegant airy is perfectly combined.
Step 4: In a separate clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with the cream of tartar. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Step 5: Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the cream cheese base to lighten it. Slowly fold in the remaining egg whites until no white streaks remain, keeping the french cheesecake easy elegant airy mixture light and airy.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Place the pan inside a larger roasting dish and fill the outer dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Step 7: Bake for 50 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the french cheesecake easy elegant airy cool inside for 30 minutes before removing.
Step 8: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving for the best french cheesecake easy elegant airy texture.