Combine the graham cracker baking crumbs and melted butter until moistened and crumbly.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and refrigerate to set.
Combine the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl, mixing with a hand mixer on medium speed (or in your stand mixer) until smooth.
Add the lemon juice and lemon zest and mix well until incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated and distributed evenly.
Fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping by hand until the mixture is fluffy and creamy and there are no streaks in the batter.
Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust and smooth out the top with a rubber spatula or offset spatula.
Refrigerate to set for 6 hours or overnight, or set in the fridge for 2-3 hours and then in the freezer for 2-3 hours before serving. OR, set in the freezer only for 3-4 hours.
For serving:
Top with whipped cream or whipped topping and some lemon slices for garnish (optional).
Video
Notes
Make this cheesecake up to 2 days ahead of serving. Simply store in the fridge in an airtight container and then firm up in the freezer for about 2 hours before serving.