Prep the oven and pan. Heat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and lightly grease the sides. If using a water bath, wrap the outside of the pan with two layers of foil to prevent leaks.
Make the crust. In a bowl, mix almond flour, granulated sweetener, and salt.
Stir in melted butter and vanilla until the mixture feels like damp sand. Press evenly into the pan, building a slight edge up the sides.
Par-bake the crust. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden and set. Let it cool while you make the filling.
Beat the cream cheese. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed for 1–2 minutes until smooth and lump-free.
Scrape the bowl.
Add sweetener and salt. Mix in the powdered sweetener and salt on low, then increase to medium until fully combined. Keep the mixer speed moderate to avoid whipping in too much air.
Blend in sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice. Mix until silky. Scrape the bowl again so everything is uniform.
Add the eggs. Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed, just until combined.
Do not overmix. The batter should be smooth and pourable.
Fill the pan. Pour the batter over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
Set up the bake. If using a water bath, place the foil-wrapped pan in a large roasting pan and pour hot water around it to reach halfway up the sides.
Otherwise, place a separate pan of hot water on the lower rack to add moisture to the oven.
Bake gently. Bake for 55–70 minutes. The edges should be set and the center should still wobble slightly when you nudge the pan. Do not overbake.
Cool slowly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 45 minutes.
Then remove from the oven and let it come to room temperature.
Chill to set. Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This step finalizes the texture and makes slicing cleaner.
Serve. Run a thin knife around the edge, release the springform, and slice with a warm, clean knife. Add toppings if you like, and enjoy.