Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings a burst of brightness to your day, these Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars are just what you need. With their creamy texture, tangy lemon flavor, and a hint of sweetness, these bars are perfect for a refreshing treat any time of the year. Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or a delightful end to your meal, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a touch of citrus.

Imagine biting into a rich, creamy cheesecake with a zesty lemon twist that dances on your taste buds. These bars offer the perfect balance between sweet and tart, with a smooth filling and a buttery crust. They’re simple to make, yet elegant enough to impress your guests. Plus, they’re easy to cut into perfect squares, making them a convenient and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Resume of the Recipe: Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars feature a luscious cheesecake filling infused with bright lemon flavor, sitting atop a buttery graham cracker crust. The combination of creamy and tangy makes these bars an irresistible treat. They’re perfect for any occasion where a refreshing and elegant dessert is desired, and their ease of preparation makes them a go-to recipe for busy bakers.

Exciting Story: I first made these Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars for a family gathering, aiming to create something that would perfectly capture the essence of summer. As soon as I cut the first slice, the vibrant lemon aroma filled the room, and the bars were met with enthusiastic approval. They quickly became a favorite in our household, with everyone asking for the recipe. Each time I make them, I’m reminded of how a simple, zesty dessert can elevate any occasion and bring smiles all around.

Why This Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bar?

• Bright Flavor: The zesty lemon adds a refreshing tang that complements the creamy cheesecake filling perfectly.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients and minimal preparation time.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light and elegant dessert after a meal.

How to Make Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang to help with removal later.
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
   • Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Mix in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
   • Allow the bars to cool in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
5. Serve:
   • Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
   • Cut into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh berries if desired.

Tips:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Fruit Toppings: Top with fresh berries or a berry sauce for added flavor and color.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Reduced Sugar: Use less granulated sugar or a sugar substitute in the filling.
• Light Cream Cheese: Substitute light cream cheese for a lower-fat option.

Closing: And there you have it! These Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars are sure to be a hit with their bright, refreshing flavor and creamy texture. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out. For more delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out our other sweet treats!

Relevant Categories: Dessert, Bars, Cheesecake, Lemon

Tags: Lemon Cheesecake Bars, Citrus Desserts, Easy Cheesecake, Summer Treats

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
   • Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
   • Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. How can I avoid cracks in the cheesecake?
   • Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure the oven temperature is correct. Also, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.
5. Can I make these bars in advance?
   • Yes, these bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. They actually taste better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
6. What if I don’t have graham crackers?
   • You can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies as a substitute for the crust.
7. Can I add fruit to the filling?
   • You can fold in some fresh berries or a swirl of fruit preserves into the filling before baking for extra flavor.
8. How do I make the crust without butter?
   • Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you need a dairy-free version of the crust.
9. What’s the best way to cut the bars?
   • Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat squares.
10. Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of lemon?
    • Yes, you can substitute lime or orange juice and zest for a different citrus flavor.

Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars

0 from 0 votes

Recipe by Alexandra Course: All Word Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

1

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 (150g) graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup 1/4 (50g) granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup 1/2 (115g) unsalted butter, melted

• For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 2 packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup 1 (200g) granulated sugar

• 3 large 3 eggs

• 1/2 cup 1/2 (120ml) sour cream

• 1/4 cup 1/4 (60ml) fresh lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons 2 lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon 1 vanilla extract

Directions

• Prepare the Oven and Pan:
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang to help with removal later.
• Make the Crust:
• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
• Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
• Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Mix in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Assemble and Bake:
• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
• Allow the bars to cool in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
• Serve:
• Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
• Cut into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh berries if desired.

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