🍋 Lemon Cheesecake Bars 🍰✨

Bright, creamy cheesecake with a buttery graham crust and a zesty lemon topping—refreshing and irresistible!

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Lemon Topping (Optional)

• ½ cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line 8×8 or 9×9 pan with parchment. Mix crumbs, butter, and sugar until moistened. Press firmly into pan. Bake 8–10 min, then cool slightly.
2. Prepare Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sour cream until creamy.
3. Bake: Pour filling over crust. Smooth top. Bake 30–35 min until edges set and center slightly jiggly. Cool completely.
4. Add Topping: Spread lemon curd evenly over cooled cheesecake layer for extra tangy flavor.
5. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate at least 3 hrs or overnight. Lift slab with parchment, slice into squares, and serve chilled.

Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: ~4 hours (including chilling)
• Yield: 12–16 bars
• Kcal: ~250 per bar

✨ A refreshing twist on cheesecake—perfect for spring gatherings, summer parties, or holiday trays!