A quick, nutritious, and flavor-packed breakfast or snack!
A delightful dessert that’s creamy, tangy, and simply irresistible! These Lemon Cheesecake Bars combine a luscious, smooth cheesecake layer with a buttery, golden crust for a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something sweet, these bars will satisfy your dessert cravings.
Recipe Information
| Prep Time: | Cook Time: | Total Time: |
|---|---|---|
| 45 mins | 45 mins | 1 hr 30 mins |
| Servings: | Yield: |
|---|---|
| 10 | 1 (9×13-inch) casserole |
🍋 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Creamy: A smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a burst of lemon flavor.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients with minimal prep time—ready in under an hour!
Versatile: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
🍰 What You’ll Need
Equipment
9×9-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Spatula
Parchment paper
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ cup sour cream
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Topping (Optional):
Powdered sugar
Whipped cream
Fresh lemon slices
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, flour, sour cream, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
Slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream and fresh lemon slices for added elegance.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars
Chill Thoroughly: Letting the bars cool completely ensures the perfect texture.
Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the baking time to prevent cracking.
🍋 Storage & Reheating
Storage Tips
Store Lemon Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Tips
Enjoy chilled or allow to come to room temperature before serving. For an extra indulgent treat, serve slightly warm.
📊 Nutrition Information (Per Bar)
Nutrient | Amount (Per Bar)
Calories | ~280
Protein | 4g
Carbohydrates | 27g
Fat | 15g
Saturated Fat | 9g
Cholesterol | 55mg
Sodium | 180mg
Fiber | 1g
Sugar | 18g
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use a different type of crust?
A. Yes, try using shortbread cookies or oat flour for a different base flavor.
Q. Can I make this gluten-free?
A. Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed gluten-free cookies.
Q. Can I add berries on top?
A. Absolutely! Fresh or macerated berries like strawberries or blueberries make a delicious topping.
Q. Can I freeze these bars?
A. Yes, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Lemon Cheesecake Bars offer the perfect combination of creamy and tangy flavors. A simple yet elegant dessert that everyone will enjoy! Let us know how you customize yours in the comments!