Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars

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Bright, tangy, and luxuriously creamy—these Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a dream come true for lemon lovers. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cheesecake filling, and a vibrant lemon curd topping, they strike the perfect balance of sweet and zesty. Each bar is a refreshing treat that melts in your mouth while delivering a burst of citrus sunshine.

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Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, these bars are as pretty as they are delicious. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, potluck, or just indulging in a little weekday luxury, their layered beauty and flavor make them a standout dessert.

What Kind of Lemon Curd Should I Use?

Homemade lemon curd always wins for depth of flavor and freshness, but store-bought works well in a pinch. Look for one with a vibrant yellow hue and natural ingredients—no artificial aftertaste. If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own lemon curd in advance and chill it overnight for the silkiest finish.

Ingredients for the Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars

  • Graham Crackers: Crushed to form a sturdy, buttery crust base that holds up perfectly under the creamy layers.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melted and mixed with the graham crumbs to form a golden, flavorful crust.
  • Cream Cheese: The foundation of the cheesecake layer—softened for easy blending and ultimate creaminess.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the lemon.
  • Eggs: Essential for setting the cheesecake layer into a velvety, sliceable texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor profile with a warm, aromatic note.
  • Lemon Juice + Zest: Delivers that signature citrus zing, both in the cheesecake and the topping.
  • Lemon Curd: A glossy, tart layer that adds punch and a beautiful finish to the bars.

How To Make the Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it evenly into the bottom of the dish and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla, lemon juice, and zest. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth out the top.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully chilled.

Step 4: Add the Lemon Curd

Once the cheesecake layer is set, gently spread the lemon curd over the top using an offset spatula. Chill for another hour to let the curd firm up before slicing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Cut into squares and garnish with whipped cream, lemon slices, or fresh mint if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the burst of lemon bliss in every bite.


How to Serve and Store Lemon Cheesecake Bars

For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each slice. Serve chilled straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These also freeze well—just wrap each bar in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.

What to Serve With Lemon Cheesecake Bars?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries pair beautifully with the citrus notes and add juicy contrast.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

A cold glass of something citrusy or herbal balances the richness of the cheesecake layer.

Whipped Cream Topping

Add a light dollop on each bar for extra decadence.

Vanilla Ice Cream

For a summer dessert plate, a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the bars perfectly.

Chocolate-Covered Almonds

A little crunch and cocoa to balance the tart and sweet.


Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?

If you’re head over heels for these lemon cheesecake bars, here are a few more creamy and crave-worthy options to explore:

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Tried it with a twist? Maybe a gingersnap crust or a raspberry swirl? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.


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Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 5 hours
  • Yield: 12 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Bright, creamy, and irresistibly tangy, these Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a refreshing twist on classic cheesecake. Layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, rich lemon-kissed cheesecake, and topped with a vibrant lemon curd, they’re the perfect dessert for warm days or special occasions. These easy-to-make bars are ideal for anyone searching for quick dessert ideas, easy recipes, healthy snack options (in moderation!), and crowd-pleasing food ideas. Whether you need new breakfast ideas or unique dinner party desserts, this recipe fits right in.


Ingredients

1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

16 ounces cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 cup lemon curd


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of the dish to form crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool slightly.

3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

5. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.

6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set.

7. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

8. Spread lemon curd evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.

9. Chill for another hour to firm the topping.

10. Slice, garnish as desired, and serve chilled.

Notes

For clean cuts, use a hot knife wiped clean between each slice.

Bars can be frozen for up to a month—just wrap individually in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Sodium: 190mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: easy recipe, lemon cheesecake, spring dessert, summer snack, healthy snack, food ideas, dessert bars

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