Why make this recipe
Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with a bright and tangy lemon flavor. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a dessert to enjoy at home. The balance of sweetness and tartness makes them irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
How to make Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup butter (chilled)
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 Tbsp. milk
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup flour
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine chilled butter, 2 cups of flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Add 1 egg, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 3/4 cup lemon juice, and 1/3 cup flour. Pour this lemon layer over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is set.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to serve Lemon Cheesecake Bars
You can serve Lemon Cheesecake Bars chilled or at room temperature. They are great on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream. You can also garnish them with fresh lemon zest or mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
How to store Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Store any leftover Lemon Cheesecake Bars in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to make Lemon Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is well-softened. This helps to create a smooth filling.
- Avoid overbaking the bars; they should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, you can add more lemon juice or lemon zest to the filling.
Variation
You can add a fruit topping, like fresh berries or a berry sauce, on top of the bars after they have cooled. Another variation is to swap a part of the lemon juice for lime juice to create a lime cheesecake bar.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of cream cheese?
You can try using mascarpone for a slightly different flavor, but cream cheese is best for this recipe.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine chilled butter, 2 cups of flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Add 1 egg, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 3/4 cup lemon juice, and 1/3 cup flour. Pour this lemon layer over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is set.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
