Description
These Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a deliciously tangy and creamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust. The zesty lemon flavor combined with the rich cream cheese filling creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Topped with whipped cream and fresh lemon slices, these bars are a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
For the Filling:
- 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed.
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 3/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to set.
- Once chilled, slice into squares and top with whipped cream and lemon slices, if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, you can add extra lemon zest or juice to the filling.
- You can substitute the whipped cream topping with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simpler presentation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American