Description
These Lemon Cheesecake Bars feature a creamy, tangy lemon filling set on a buttery graham cracker crust, making them the perfect refreshing dessert. Whether you’re a cheesecake fan or simply love lemony treats, these bars offer the best of both worlds. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet snack, these easy-to-make bars will surely impress with their delicious flavor and smooth texture.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping (Optional):
Powdered sugar for dusting
Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Pour cheesecake filling over cooled crust, spreading evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set with a slight jiggle.
- Cool bars at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Once chilled, lift bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon zest.
Notes
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
The cheesecake bars will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to keep them creamy.
Refrigerating the bars for several hours helps set the filling and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 210 kcal