Print

Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 58 reviews

These Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy cheesecake filling infused with a tangy lemon curd swirl. Perfectly balanced and visually stunning, these bars are an ideal dessert for gatherings or a sophisticated treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter

For the cheesecake filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream

For the lemon curd swirl:

  • 1/2 cup lemon curd
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. This prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup, ensuring smooth baking and removal.
  2. Make the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until crumbs are evenly coated. This ensures a cohesive, flavorful crust with consistent texture.
  3. Press the Crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed glass to create a compact, sturdy base.
  4. Bake the Crust: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, then remove and cool slightly. This sets the crust and prevents sogginess by maintaining a crisp texture.
  5. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for even incorporation without overmixing.
  6. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream gently until fully combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent a tough filling and ensure creaminess.
  7. Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Spoon small dollops of lemon curd across the top, spacing evenly for a decorative pattern.
  8. Swirl the Lemon Curd: Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the lemon curd into the cheesecake batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect without over-swisting.
  9. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30-35 minutes until the edges are set and center is slightly jiggly, then remove and let cool to room temperature in the pan for even setting and to prevent cracks.
  10. Serve: Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, slice into squares or rectangles. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, lemon zest, or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for the smoothest filling consistency.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense or tough cheesecake.
  • Use fresh lemon zest for enhanced citrus flavor if desired.
  • Allow cheesecake bars to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
  • Store leftover bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Keywords: lemon cheesecake bars, lemon curd dessert, marbled cheesecake, graham cracker crust dessert, creamy lemon bars

Find it online: https://cookwithruby.com/elegant-lemon-marbled-cheesecake-bars-recipe/