Name: Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar (for the crust); ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar (for the filling); 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon); ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as refreshing as a sunny day, you’ve come to the right place! These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavor and texture. The combination of the buttery graham cracker crust, the rich lemon cheesecake filling, and the crumbly topping is simply irresistible. Whether you need something sweet for a busy weeknight dinner, a delightful addition to family gatherings, or just a little pick-me-up for yourself, these bars are perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe so special is its ease of preparation. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up these delicious bars in no time. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free option for entertaining or meal prepping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: You don’t have to be a baking expert to pull this off. The steps are simple and straightforward!
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesecake! These bars will quickly become a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert after dinner, or an afternoon snack, these bars fit right in.
Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and simply chill before serving—they taste even better after sitting!
Deliciously Tangy: The fresh lemon juice and zest give these bars a bright flavor that’s refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delightful treat!

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

16 oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or add-ins based on your preferences.

Add Fresh Berries: Swirl in some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the filling for an extra fruity twist.
Try Different Citrus: Substitute lime or orange juice and zest for a unique citrus experience.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers instead of regular ones for a gluten-free version.
Add a Layer of Fruit Compote: Top your cheesecake bars with a layer of fruit compote before serving for added sweetness and color.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dessert bakes evenly. While it’s heating up, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will help you lift out the bars easily once they’re set.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Mixture

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, flour, sugar, and salt. Then add in the melted butter and stir until everything is mixed well. This crumb mixture forms both your crust and topping—so it’s essential to get it right!

Step 3: Press the Crust

Firmly press two-thirds of this crumb mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. This creates a solid base for your creamy filling. Make sure it’s packed tightly so it holds together beautifully when baked.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar followed by the eggs one at a time, mixing continuously. Then add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mixing until silky ensures that there are no lumps in your filling!

Step 5: Assemble

Pour this luscious filling over your pressed crust evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top. This adds texture and keeps that delicious graham cracker flavor front and center.

Step 6: Bake

Place your assembled bars in the oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes until they are set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This slight jiggle will ensure they remain creamy!

Step 7: Cool Down

Let them cool at room temperature for about an hour before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chill them for at least three hours; this helps them firm up nicely for slicing.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, slice into squares and serve! You can dust them with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries if desired—both options make these bars even more visually appealing!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars! They’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe

These tips will help you achieve the best results with your cheesecake crumb bars!

Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smoother filling, as cold cream cheese can create lumps that detract from the creamy texture.
Don’t overmix the filling: Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined for that perfect creamy consistency.
Let them cool properly: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before chilling. This helps them set evenly and enhances the flavors.
Chill before slicing: Chilling the bars for at least 3 hours makes them easier to cut and improves their texture, making every slice clean and beautiful.
Experiment with citrus zest: While lemon is fantastic, try adding a bit of lime or orange zest for a refreshing twist on flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe

These delightful bars not only taste amazing but also look great on any dessert table! Here are some fun ways to serve them.

Garnishes

Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tart lemon.
Fresh berries: Top with blueberries or raspberries for a pop of color and added freshness; they complement the lemon flavor perfectly!

Side Dishes

Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free option is light and airy, providing a lovely contrast to the richness of the cheesecake bars while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Fruit salad: Create a refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and melon. The natural sweetness balances out the tanginess of the bars.
Iced tea or lemonade: Serve these bars alongside a glass of homemade iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink that enhances the lemony flavor of your dessert.
Vanilla ice cream: For those who want to indulge further, consider pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture and cold temperature make for an irresistible combination!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient treat to have on hand throughout the week. You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them whenever that sweet craving hits!

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will keep well for up to 5 days.
For best texture, consume within the first few days after baking.

Freezing

To freeze, cut the bars into individual portions.
Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
If desired, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey treat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert:

Can I use a different type of crust for the Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of crusts, such as an almond flour base or even crushed cookies like digestive biscuits for a unique twist.

How do I ensure my filling is smooth for the Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe?

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Beat it well until creamy and then add ingredients one at a time to maintain that silky texture.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can try using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or alternative sweeteners if you’re looking to cater to specific dietary needs. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly!

What should I serve with my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but you might also enjoy pairing them with fresh berries, whipped coconut cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze for extra flair.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars! They are not just a dessert; they’re a little slice of sunshine that brightens up any day. Whether enjoyed during breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet ending to dinner, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking—may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter as you create this delightful treat!

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 12 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the bright, refreshing taste of Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars, where zesty lemon meets a rich, creamy filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. These delightful bars are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, a weekend treat, or just a sweet pick-me-up. With their incredible balance of tangy and sweet flavors, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, ensuring you’re always ready to satisfy that sweet craving. Get ready to brighten your day with this simple yet delicious dessert!

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, flour, ½ cup sugar, and salt; add melted butter and stir until combined.
Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; gradually add remaining sugar and eggs one at a time. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until creamy.
Pour the filling over the crust and sprinkle with remaining crumb mixture.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until set but slightly jiggy in the center.
Cool at room temperature for an hour then refrigerate for at least three hours before slicing.