Lemon Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Enjoy a burst of citrusy flavor with our delightful Lemon Cheesecake Bars recipe. Perfectly creamy with a zesty lemon twist, these bars are a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.

Introduction to Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a wonderful combination of tangy lemon and smooth cheesecake, all nestled atop a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for citrus lovers and make a fantastic dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners.

Ingredients for Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

For the Crust:

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Topping:

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it down firmly.

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined and smooth.

1. Pour the Filling Over the Crust:

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

1. Bake the Bars:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

1. Make the Lemon Topping:

• In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and drizzle consistency.
• Drizzle the lemon topping over the cooled cheesecake bars.

1. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
• Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

About the Main Ingredients:

• Cream Cheese: Provides the creamy base for the cheesecake filling, adding richness and a smooth texture.
• Lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to both the cheesecake filling and the tangy lemon topping, balancing the sweetness of the dessert.
• Graham Crackers: Create a buttery and slightly crunchy crust that complements the creamy cheesecake filling.

These Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the richness of cheesecake with the freshness of lemon. Perfect for any dessert table or as a refreshing end to a meal, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant flavor and creamy texture. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious bars with family and friends!