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