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lemon cheesecake bar topped with whipped cream and lemon wedge
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Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon Cheesecake Bars made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling flavored with fresh lemon juice and zest.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Chill Time3 hours
Total Time3 hours 40 minutes
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cream cheese lemon bars, Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 259kcal
Author: Lois

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 8 graham cracker sheets
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice about ½ lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

  • Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
  • Add the graham crackers to a food processor and pulse until finely crushed.
  • Add the melted butter and granulated sugar. Pulse until evenly combined.
  • Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake the crust for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Lemon Cream Cheese Mixture

  • Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  • Add the sugar, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined and smooth.
  • Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crust.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle.
  • Cool on a wire rack for 30–45 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
  • Cut into bars and serve chilled.

Notes

Tips

  • Use fully softened cream cheese so the filling mixes smoothly.
  • Mix the eggs into the filling just until combined to avoid adding too much air.
  • Chill the bars for at least 3 hours before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Make Ahead

  • Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • They can be prepared a day ahead and kept chilled until serving.
  • For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 259kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 79mg | Sodium: 222mg | Potassium: 83mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 670IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 1mg