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Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 14 reviews

Delight in these creamy lemon cheesecake crumb bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy lemon-infused cheesecake filling. Perfectly balanced, creamy yet refreshing, these bars are an irresistible treat ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

  • 16 oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
  2. Make the Crumb Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly combined and resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the Crust: Firmly press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that will serve as the crust.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ½ cup granulated sugar, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the filling is silky and well combined.
  5. Assemble the Bars: Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the crust layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top of the filling to form the crumb topping.
  6. Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy texture without overbaking.
  7. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature for about 1 hour. Then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to fully set and develop flavor.
  8. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Press crumbs firmly to prevent the crust from crumbling when cut.
  • Chilling time is crucial to allow the bars to set properly for clean slicing.
  • Fresh lemon juice and zest provide vibrant flavor; avoid bottled juice for best results.
  • These bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • For a gluten-free variation, substitute graham cracker crumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cheesecake bars, creamy cheesecake, crumb bars, lemon dessert, easy cheesecake recipe

Find it online: https://cookwithruby.com/creamy-lemon-cheesecake-crumb-bars-recipe/