Introduction
Indulge in the tangy and creamy delight of Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars, a refreshing treat perfect for a sweet and zesty fix. These luscious bars combine a crunchy graham cracker crust with a silky lemon cheesecake filling, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Graham cracker crumbs: 200g
Unsalted butter, melted: 100g
Granulated sugar: 50g
Cream cheese, softened: 600g
Granulated sugar: 150g
Large eggs: 3
Sour cream: 120ml
Fresh lemon juice: 80ml
Lemon zest: 2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour: 30g
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours (includes chilling time)
Yield: 16 bars
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 50g granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 150g sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the flour and mix just until combined. Pour the cheesecake batter over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center jiggles slightly.
7. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
8. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial for ensuring that your cheesecake bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some excess to hang over the edges. This overhang will be your helpful guide when it comes to removing the bars once they’ve set.
Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine 200g of graham cracker crumbs, 100g of melted unsalted butter, and 50g of granulated sugar. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your lined baking pan to form a solid crust. Bake this in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool slightly.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 600g of softened cream cheese together with 150g of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It’s important to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
Add the Eggs
Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth, add the large eggs, one at a time. Beat well after each addition, ensuring each egg is fully integrated before adding the next. This will yield a rich and fluffy filling.
Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients
Mix in 120ml of sour cream, 80ml of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture will develop a delightful tangy aroma.
Combine the Flour
Gradually add 30g of all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your cheesecake.
Pour the Batter
Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the slightly cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly, smoothing the top for a beautiful finish.
Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges are set, but the center jiggles slightly when shaken. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Cool and Chill
After removing the cheesecake bars from the oven, let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until they are fully chilled and set. The chilling step allows the flavors to deepen and the bars to firm up for easy slicing.
Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, use the overhang of parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice them into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, zesty delight of your Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars!
Notes
Ingredient Quality
For the best flavor, use fresh lemons for juice and zest. The brightness of fresh lemon elevates the taste significantly.
Storing Leftovers
These cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you prefer, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go treats.
Freezer-Friendly
If you’d like to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze well! Just ensure they are wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn and enjoy them within 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch, consider serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of lemon glaze. Fresh berries also complement their tangy flavor perfectly.
Cook Techniques
Crust Preparation
To create a delicious graham cracker crust, mix together crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a bit of sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan to ensure it holds together after baking.
Baking the Crust
Bake the crust for about 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) to achieve a perfect golden-brown base. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the cheesecake filling.
Mixing the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Incorporate eggs one by one, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next to achieve a creamy texture.
Adding Flavor
Combine sour cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract into the cheesecake mixture. This will add a refreshing tang and depth of flavor to the bars.
Incorporating Flour
Gradually add all-purpose flour to the cheesecake filling, mixing gently. This step is crucial to avoid overmixing which could lead to a dense texture.
Baking the Cheesecake Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bars are done when the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Chilling
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 3 hours. Chilling is essential for setting the cheesecake and enhancing the flavors.
Slicing and Serving
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Slice into squares, ensuring even portions, and serve chilled for the best experience.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with other cookies like oreos or digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?
The bars are done when the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly, indicating it is still creamy.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve them.
How should I store leftover bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Lemon Dream Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the bright and tangy essence of lemons with the creamy richness of cheesecake. With their crunchy graham cracker crust and smooth filling, these bars offer a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed at a summer gathering or as a special dessert at home, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Add a fruity twist by swirling in a raspberry or blueberry puree to the cheesecake batter before baking for a colorful and flavorful variation.
Chocolate Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Incorporate chocolate by adding melted dark chocolate to half of the cheesecake mixture. Layer the chocolate mixture on top of the lemon filling for a delightful contrast.
Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
Substitute fresh lime juice and lime zest for the lemon juice and zest to create a tart and refreshing key lime flavor.
Coconut Lime Cheesecake Bars
Mix shredded coconut into the crust and add some coconut cream to the filling for a tropical twist on the classic cheesecake bars.
Matcha Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Incorporate matcha powder into the cheesecake batter for a unique flavor pairing that blends the earthiness of matcha with the bright taste of lemon.
Nutty Crust Cheesecake Bars
Replace some of the graham cracker crumbs with crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a deliciously crunchy and wholesome crust.
