Shortbread Crust for Cheesecakes

Combine flour, sugar and lemon peel. Cut in the butter until the mixture is the size of peas. Add the lightly beaten egg and the vanilla just until it comes together and you can form a dough ball.

Pat 1/3 of the dough into the bottom of your cheesecake pan. Bake 8 minutes at 400 degrees (F). Remove from oven, let cool until you can comfortably touch the pan for the next step.

Pat the rest of the dough onto the sides of the pan. Add your cheesecake filling of choice and bake according to your cheesecake recipe directions.