Description
Indulge in these creamy lemon cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool.
- Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Baking the Cheesecake Bars:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Assembling and Serving:
- Cut into squares using a sharp knife dipped in hot water.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat cream cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle.
- These cheesecake bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes