Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon cheesecake bars are a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust paired with a creamy, rich cream cheese filling that’s infused with fresh lemon juice and zest. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat at home, these lemon cheesecake bars are sure to impress with their bright flavors and smooth texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest gives these bars a refreshing taste that stands out.
• Creamy Texture: The rich cream cheese filling creates a smooth and luscious bite with every bar.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up quickly.
• Versatile Serving Options: They can be served chilled or at room temperature, making them perfect for any gathering.
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Cut them into bars for easy serving, making them great for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious lemon cheesecake bars, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 8 x 8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Helps quickly blend the crust ingredients to a fine consistency.
• Stand mixer: Ensures the cream cheese mixture is smooth without lumps.
• Rubber spatula: Aids in spreading the filling evenly over the crust.

Ingredients

Lemon cheesecake bars are a creamy, bright and easy lemon dessert. Buttery shortbread crust with a rich cream cheese topping that bursts with lemon!

For the Crust

• 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)

For the Filling

• 16 ounces light cream cheese (two 8-ounce blocks) softened (do not use fat free)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (at room temperature)
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8 x 8-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In the bowl of a food processor or in a medium mixing bowl:
1. Lightly pulse together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat pastry flour, powdered sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of lemon zest, and kosher salt.
2. Add in the cold butter pieces and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes until it is lightly browned. Set it aside to cool for at least 15 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Filling

While the crust cools:
1. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or using a large mixing bowl and hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add in one egg at a time, beating just until mixed after each addition.
3. Mix in fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and remaining lemon zest until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Layers

Pour this creamy filling over your cooled crust:
1. Spread it evenly to cover all edges.

Step 6: Bake Again

Bake for an additional 28 to 32 minutes until set on top but still slightly jiggly when shaken gently.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Let your bars cool on a wire rack for about an hour:
– Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 8 hours before cutting into bars.

These luscious lemon cheesecake bars are perfect for any occasion! Enjoy garnishing them with whipped cream if desired.

How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon cheesecake bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging in a quiet night at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and juicy contrast to the tangy lemon flavor.
• Raspberries: Their tartness complements the creamy texture of the cheesecake bars perfectly.
• Blueberries: These add a pop of color and a mild sweetness that pairs well with lemon.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Heavy Whipping Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a rich texture that balances the tartness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try vanilla or citrus-flavored whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Garnished with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few mint leaves not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing taste that enhances the lemon flavor.

Served with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream creates a lovely contrast with the lemon cheesecake bars.
• Lemon Sorbet: For an extra zing, serve alongside lemon sorbet for a bright, citrusy experience.

this …

How to Perfect Lemon Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your lemon cheesecake bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing cream cheese and eggs to room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks. Mix just until combined.
• Let them cool slowly: After baking, allow the bars to cool gradually at room temperature before chilling to prevent cracks.
• Chill adequately: Allowing them to chill for 4 to 8 hours ensures they set properly and enhance their flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Pairing side dishes with lemon cheesecake bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds lightness and balances the richness of the bars.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweet chocolate provides a delicious contrast to the tartness of lemon.
3. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a refreshing side that complements the dessert.
4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats pair beautifully with lemon flavors and add texture to your dessert spread.
5. Shortbread Cookies: Their buttery richness echoes the crust of the bars while providing an additional crunch.
6. Herbed Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses with herbs provides savory notes that balance out the sweet dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Lemon Cheesecake Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Fat-Free Cream Cheese: This ingredient can lead to a less creamy texture. Always opt for light cream cheese for best results.
• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs and cream cheese won’t blend well, resulting in lumps. Ensure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overbaking: Leaving the bars in the oven too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them; they should jiggle slightly when done.
• Not Cooling Enough: Cutting too soon can result in messy bars. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Ignoring the Zest: The lemon zest is key for flavor. Don’t skip it! Make sure to include both fresh and additional zest for brightness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat bars for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick pan over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Lemon Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute whole wheat pastry flour and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.

Can I use different citrus fruits?

Absolutely! You can experiment with lime or orange zest and juice for a unique twist on these Lemon Cheesecake Bars.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The cheesecake should be set on top but still jiggle slightly when you move the pan. Overbaking will make it dry.

Can I add toppings to my Lemon Cheesecake Bars?

Yes! Fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce make fantastic toppings.

Final Thoughts

Lemon cheesecake bars are not only delicious but also versatile. Their creamy texture and bright flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or use different citrus fruits. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!