Zesty Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bit of sunshine in your life? What if I told you that baking lemon cheesecake bars is as easy as pie? Well, easier, actually! These easy cheesecake bars are the perfect solution.
Quick Hook
Ever had a day where you just needed something zesty and bright? That's exactly what inspired these lemon cheesecake bars .
With their tangy, citrusy flavor and creamy texture, they're little squares of happiness.
Brief Overview
Think New York cheesecake met a lemon grove. These baked cheesecake bars are a delightful twist on an American classic.
They are easy to make and take only about 1 hour 30 minutes to make, including chilling time. This recipe yields 16 lemon cheesecake bars .
Main Benefits
These lemon dessert recipes are not just delicious, they are also a good source of calcium. The bars are perfect for summer BBQs, afternoon teas, or a treat.
What makes them special is the perfect balance of sweet and tart and their ease of preparation.
Alright, let's talk ingredients for these amazing citrus cheesecake recipe bars. First we're creating that classic graham cracker crust cheesecake .
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ready to bake up some sunshine? These lemon cheesecake bars are begging to be made. These easy cheesecake bars are super simple to make.
So grab your ingredients, and let's get started! This citrus cheesecake recipe is one of my all-time favorite lemon dessert recipes .
Honestly, I think you'll love them.
Main Ingredients
For that Glorious Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs. I use about 10-12 whole graham crackers.
- 5 tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, melted.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
Tip: Look for graham crackers that are golden brown and smell sweetly of honey.
For the Luscious Lemon Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened. This is key!
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar.
- 2 large eggs.
- ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Don't skimp!
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
Honestly, using room temperature cream cheese makes all the difference. It blends so much better!
Seasoning Notes for a Zesty Dessert Idea
This is where the magic happens for these lemon cheesecake bars .
- Lemon Zest & Juice: Don't even think about skipping these. Fresh lemon is the secret weapon.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances all the other flavors.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness.
For a bit of a twist, try adding a pinch of cardamom. It goes surprisingly well with lemon.
Equipment Needed for Graham Cracker Crust Cheesecake
You don't need fancy gadgets for these baked cheesecake bars !
- 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Parchment paper . Honestly, this is a lifesaver for easy removal.
- Mixing bowls (various sizes).
- Electric mixer. A stand mixer is great, but a hand mixer works too.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Lemon zester.
- Lemon juicer.
Don't have a lemon juicer? Just use your hands! I will be honest, it requires a bit more effort, but works totally fine.
These lemon cheesecake bars are just the ticket for a summer dessert recipe . They taste so fresh! I hope you enjoy this cream cheese desserts .
Zesty Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars: A Slice of Sunshine!
Honestly, who doesn't love a good lemon dessert recipe ? And when it comes to effortless, easy cheesecake bars , these Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Bars are top tier.
Think of a creamy, tangy, utterly irresistible treat. It's like pure sunshine in every bite. Sharing is optional! I remember the first time I made these my mates absolutely devoured them at a garden party.
Honestly they’re perfect!
Prep Like a Pro: Setting Up Your Station
Essential mise en place is your best friend here. Get your graham crackers crushed, butter melted, and cream cheese softened.
Honestly, softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth filling. It prevents lumps, you know? Measure everything out before you start.
It saves so much time and stress. And remember, safety first! Keep those knives sharp and your hands dry when using electrical appliances.
Baking Brilliance: step-by-step Guide
Follow these easy steps and you’ll be grand!
- Crust Time: Combine 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs , 5 tablespoons (71g) melted butter , ¼ cup (50g) sugar , and ¼ teaspoon salt . Press into your 9x13 inch pan. Chill for 30 minutes .
- Oven Warm-Up: Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .
- Bake the Base: Bake the crust for 8 minutes . Let it cool completely.
- Cream Cheese Magic: Beat 24 ounces (680g) softened cream cheese and 1 cup (200g) sugar until smooth.
- Lemon Infusion: Mix in 2 large eggs one at a time. Stir in ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream , 2 tablespoons lemon juice , 2 teaspoons lemon zest , 1 teaspoon vanilla extract , and 2 tablespoons flour .
- Pour and Bake: Pour the filling over the crust. Bake for 35- 40 minutes . Edges should be set, center slightly jiggly.
- Cool Down: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the lemon cheesecake bars cool for 1 hour .
- Chill Out: Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours , or overnight.
Expert Tricks: Making Lemon Cheesecake Bars Like a Boss
Don't overbake! A slight jiggle is key. Seriously. Overbaking leads to a dry, sad cheesecake. Use fresh lemon juice and zest.
Bottled stuff just doesn't compare. Another great tip is line your pan with parchment paper with an overhang. Makes lifting out the baked cheesecake bars so much easier! If you want to be extra fancy, swirl some raspberry jam into the filling before baking.
It adds a lovely pop of colour and flavour. Make these ahead! They actually taste better after a day or two in the fridge.
Perfect for stress free entertaining as it would be one of the best summer dessert recipes .
Recipe Notes: Let's Get These Lemon Cheesecake Bars Just Right
Right then, before you dive headfirst into making these lemon cheesecake bars , let's have a quick chinwag about a few things.
Honestly, it's the little details that make all the difference. Trust me, I've had my fair share of baking mishaps!
Serving Suggestions: Making Your Zesty Dessert Ideas Shine
Okay, so you've got your gorgeous lemon cheesecake bars , still slightly chilled and gleaming. What next?
- Plating and Presentation: Think sunshine! Dust them lightly with icing sugar. A few fresh raspberries always look nice. Or how about a delicate swirl of lemon curd on each plate? Ooh, fancy!
- Complementary Sides or Beverages: A simple dollop of whipped cream works wonders. For drinks, iced tea or a sparkling lemonade are fab choices. Something to cut through the richness.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Cream Cheese Desserts Fresh as a Daisy
Nobody wants a soggy lemon cheesecake bar . Here's the lowdown on storage.
- Refrigeration Guidelines: These bars are best kept in the fridge. Pop them in an airtight container. They'll happily last for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Options: Got leftovers? Wrap them individually in cling film and freeze. They’ll be good for about a month. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating Instructions: No need to reheat! These are best enjoyed straight from the fridge, nice and cold. The perfect summer dessert recipe !
Variations: Easy Cheesecake Bars Your Way
Fancy a tweak? These baked cheesecake bars are pretty versatile.
- Dietary Adaptations: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. Simple!
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In winter, try adding a hint of warming spice to the crust a pinch of ginger or cinnamon. Or, for a citrus cheesecake recipe variation, add some orange zest instead of the lemon.
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Okay, let's keep it real. These are a treat, right? But a graham cracker crust cheesecake can still be enjoyed responsibly.
- Simplified Nutrition Information: Each bar is roughly around 320 calories.
- Key Health Benefits: Hey, they contain calcium from the cream cheese! And they're a great source of joy, honestly.
So there you have it. Now go forth and bake! Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and remember: even if they're not perfect, they'll still taste amazing.
And hey, if you lemon bar recipe goes a bit wrong, that's okay too, everyone makes mistakes! Happy baking and enjoy these beautiful lemon cheesecake bars !
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my lemon cheesecake bars crack? Is there a way to prevent this?
Cracking can be a common issue with cheesecakes, a bit like a dodgy paving stone in your garden! The main culprit is usually a rapid temperature change or overbaking. To prevent cracks in your lemon cheesecake bars, cool them slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar after baking.
Also, adding a tablespoon or two of flour to the batter can help stabilize the cheesecake and prevent cracking.
Can I make these lemon cheesecake bars ahead of time, and how should I store them?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making in advance. In fact, they taste even better after chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. To store your lemon cheesecake bars, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze them for longer storage; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
My cheesecake filling is lumpy. What did I do wrong?
Lumpy cheesecake filling is usually caused by cream cheese that wasn't properly softened. Remember, room temperature cream cheese is key! Make sure your cream cheese is completely soft before you start beating it.
If it's still lumpy, try beating the cream cheese on its own first until smooth, before adding the other ingredients. Think of it as giving the cream cheese a proper chance to relax before the party!
Can I use a different type of crust for these lemon cheesecake bars?
Certainly! While the graham cracker crust is a classic choice (much like a Sunday roast!), you can definitely experiment. A shortbread crust would add a lovely buttery flavour, or you could even try an Oreo crust for a fun twist. Just adjust the baking time if necessary, keeping an eye on it so it doesn't burn.
How can I make these lemon cheesecake bars even more lemony?
If you're a true lemon lover (a proper citrus enthusiast!), there are several ways to amp up the lemon flavour. You can add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice and another teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling. Another option is to brush the cooled bars with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Just be careful not to overdo it, or they might become too tart!
Are these lemon cheesecake bars healthy? What's the nutritional information?
While incredibly delicious, these lemon cheesecake bars are definitely a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, like a cheeky slice of cake on a special occasion. Each serving is estimated to have about 320 calories, 22g of fat, 5g of protein, 26g of carbohydrates, and 18g of sugar.
You can make them slightly healthier by using a light cream cheese or a sugar substitute, but remember, everything in moderation!
Zesty Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 320 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 0g |