Whisk together gelatin and boiling water until dissolved, let cool.
On a medium high speed, beat cream cheese and 1/2 c of sugar until fluffy for 2-3 minutes. Lower the speed to low, beat in 1 c heavy cream until combined. Turn on to medium speed, beat until thickened for a minute or two.
Back to low speed, beat in gelatin mixture, zest, juice and food coloring if using, until blended.
Spoon mixture into crust, cover and refrigerate until set, at least 6 H.
Slice and serve as is or you can decorate by using the last cup of heavy cream:
Beat 1 c heavy cream and 2 tbsp sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Pipe and decorate or put a dollop of cream on each sliced cheesecake.