Lemon Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If the words fresh, creamy, and downright irresistible make your heart flutter, get ready for a treat. These Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of tangy citrus and luscious cheesecake—all perched on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for spring picnics, summer gatherings, or simply brightening your day, this recipe hits that sweet spot between easy baking and crowd-pleasing flavor. Each bite bursts with sunshine thanks to real lemon, making them a standout dessert that’s sure to disappear fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients transform into Lemon Cheesecake Bars brimming with zesty charm. Each one brings something special to the table, so don’t skip a thing—this is what makes every layer pop with flavor, texture, and that swoon-worthy look.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These create the perfect buttery, slightly sweet base that holds up to the creamy filling above.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the crust and the filling without overpowering the lemon.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Helps bind the crust together and gives it that rich, golden color.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the show, ensuring every bar is velvety smooth and ultra-creamy.
- Eggs: Essential for giving the cheesecake filling its structure and bake.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and even silkier texture to the cheesecake layer.
- Fresh lemon juice: Delivers authentic, vibrant citrus flavor that wakes up every bite—fresh is key here!
- Lemon zest: Intensifies the lemony essence and adds beautiful specks of color to the filling.
- Vanilla extract: Balances out the tartness and amps up the creamy flavor profile.
- Optional garnishes – powdered sugar, lemon zest curls, or whipped cream: Each brings a different finishing touch, perfect for customizing your bars before serving.
How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s a bit hanging over the edges. This handy trick will let you lift your Lemon Cheesecake Bars out for easy slicing (and less pan scrubbing later!).
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until everything is nicely moistened. Press this crumbly mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan—back of a measuring cup works wonders here. Pop it into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it’s just golden. Let it cool slightly before adding the filling.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup sugar until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep things silky. Now, gently stir in the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, vibrant lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and the batter is glossy and dreamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour your cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth it out with a spatula for an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, just until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle if you gently shake the pan. That’s your sign for rich, creamy bars!
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Patience is your friend here. Let the pan cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then move it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 more hours—overnight is ideal if you can wait! This ensures your Lemon Cheesecake Bars slice beautifully and have that perfect creamy texture.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once your bars are chilled and set, use the parchment overhang to lift them from the pan. Grab a sharp knife, wipe it clean between each cut, and slice into neat squares. Add your favorite garnish and watch everyone’s eyes light up as you serve!
How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Lemon Cheesecake Bars are truly a blank canvas when it comes to finishing touches. Dust with a snowy layer of powdered sugar, top each piece with a curl of fresh lemon zest, or pipe a swirl of whipped cream on top. Each of these touches adds both beauty and a little extra zing or creaminess—pick whichever fits the occasion or your own tastes best!
Side Dishes
When it comes to pairing, these bars complement a wide range of simple sides. A bowl of fresh berries or a fruit salad makes a colorful, refreshing accompaniment. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis is pure dessert magic alongside the bright citrus flavor of the Lemon Cheesecake Bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling festive? Cut the bars into triangles or bite-sized squares and arrange on a serving platter for a striking dessert spread. For a more elegant gathering, plate each Lemon Cheesecake Bar with a garnish and a drizzle of raspberry or lemon sauce. Or, serve in cupcake liners for a casual grab-and-go treat at picnics and potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Cheesecake Bars should always be stored in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container, where they’ll stay delicious and creamy for up to four days. If you’ve garnished with fresh fruit or whipped cream, wait until just before serving to add those for best results.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Cheesecake Bars! Once fully chilled and sliced, arrange the bars in a single layer (or with parchment between layers) in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their wonderful flavor and texture for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
Unlike gooey brownies or hearty casseroles, these bars are at their creamy, dreamy best served cold or just slightly cool. If you’ve frozen your bars, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator; no reheating is needed. Serve straight from the fridge for the ultimate refreshing treat!
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice truly makes the flavor pop. The difference is noticeable—fresh juice and zest provide a brightness that takes these bars to the next level.
How do I get perfectly clean slices?
For those bakery-style edges, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a damp cloth between each cut. Chilling the bars thoroughly before slicing also helps you get those flawless, Instagram-worthy squares.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredient amounts and use a 9×13-inch pan. The bake time may increase slightly, so keep an eye on the center for doneness and follow the same cooling and chilling instructions.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
If you forget to take the cream cheese out of the fridge, just unwrap it and microwave in 10 to 15 second bursts until it’s barely soft to the touch. Don’t overdo it—too much heat can make your filling loose.
Will Lemon Cheesecake Bars set up if I skip the chilling step?
The chilling step is crucial for the bars to firm up and develop their rich texture. If you skip it, the filling will be too soft and may not hold its shape when sliced. Patience pays off here—it’s worth the wait!
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of a dessert that delivers both a burst of sunshine and pure creamy comfort, these Lemon Cheesecake Bars are destined to become your new go-to. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend (or two) to help, and treat yourself to a pan of this bright, irresistible delight. You’re just a few simple steps away from a little slice of lemony happiness!
Print
Lemon Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of zesty lemon and creamy cheesecake with these Lemon Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a refreshing treat that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For garnish (optional):
- powdered sugar
- lemon zest curls
- whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar, then add eggs one at a time. Stir in sour cream, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
- Bake: Pour the filling over the crust and bake until set.
- Cool and chill: Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Slice into bars, garnish, and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For cleaner slices, wipe the knife clean between cuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
