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Heavenly Lemon Cheesecake Bars

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Delicious lemon cheesecake bars with a creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
  • Extra lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. Blend together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form a solid crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool.
  3. Beat the softened cream cheese and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until completely smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
  4. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and sour cream until fully combined with no lumps.
  5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the surface with an offset spatula.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of lemon curd on top of the batter and gently swirl using a skewer or toothpick.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
  8. Cool the bars to room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  9. Lift the chilled bars out of the pan using parchment. Slice with a warm knife and garnish with extra lemon zest if desired.

Notes

These bars can be prepared up to three days in advance. Ensure accurate measurements for best results and avoid skipping chilling time to prevent a gooey texture.

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