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Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon Cheesecake Bars: Your New Favorite Tangy Treat

Enjoy irresistible Lemon Cheesecake Bars that blend creamy cheesecake with tangy lemon, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers Consider using graham crackers for a different flavor profile.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar White sugar can substitute if needed.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Melted before use for an even texture.
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 oz cream cheese Full-fat for best texture.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar No substitutions recommended for taste.
  • 3 large eggs Bring to room temperature for better mixing.
  • 1/4 cup flour Can be omitted for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Homemade can enhance the taste.
  • 2 tsp lemon zest Fresh zest yields the best results.
  • 1 tsp lemon extract Additional zest and juice can work too.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap.
For the Lemon Sauce
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice Fresh lemons are optimal.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch Arrowroot powder is a suitable alternative.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup whipped topping Substitute with homemade whipped cream if desired.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 13x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper and nonstick spray.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
  3. Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in flour, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and sour cream.
  4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are lightly browned and center is set.
  5. Let the bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  6. Spread a layer of whipped topping over the cheesecake and sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top.
  7. Combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then cool before drizzling over the bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill for at least 4 hours before slicing for best texture. Garnish with fresh fruit or powdered sugar for serving.

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