If you’re looking for a dessert that’s bright, creamy, and effortlessly refreshing, these Lemon Cheesecake Bars are the answer. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a tangy lemon-infused cheesecake layer, and a soft, smooth texture, they deliver the perfect balance of richness and zest.
These bars combine the classic elements of cheesecake with the vibrant pop of citrus, making them ideal for spring and summer, but just as welcome at any time of year. Whether you’re planning a brunch, potluck, or just want a refreshing sweet bite after dinner, these bars hit the spot.
The lemon flavor is bold but not overwhelming, with just enough tartness to cut through the creaminess of the cheesecake. Unlike overly sugary desserts, these bars feel light and fresh, yet still satisfy that cheesecake craving.
They’re also incredibly easy to make. The base is a simple graham cracker crust held together with melted butter, while the filling comes together in minutes with basic ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, lemon juice, and sugar.
You don’t need any special equipment—just a mixing bowl, a whisk or hand mixer, and a baking dish. No water bath required, and no long chill times. These are low-maintenance yet high-reward bars.
This recipe is made with pure ingredients and flavors, making it suitable for a wide audience, including families with dietary restrictions.
One of the best parts about these cheesecake bars is how easy they are to portion and serve. Unlike a traditional round cheesecake, these bars can be cut into perfect squares, wrapped for gifting, or plated for dessert tables.
They’re freezer-friendly, too. You can make a batch ahead of time and pull them out when guests drop by or whenever you need a little sweet pick-me-up. They thaw beautifully and maintain their texture.
The golden graham crust provides a sweet and buttery contrast to the silky filling, and the top of the bars can be dusted with powdered sugar or garnished with lemon zest for an elegant finish.
You can customize them with a blueberry or raspberry swirl, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a coconut crust if you want to put your own twist on it.
They’re ideal for warm weather gatherings, bake sales, tea parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of iced coffee on the patio. Their vibrant flavor and color add a sunny touch to any spread.
Best of all, they’re quick to assemble and require less than an hour start to finish, including baking time. This means more time enjoying and less time prepping.
These Lemon Cheesecake Bars are light, creamy, and full of fresh citrus flavor—your new go-to dessert for any occasion.
Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the center is just set and doesn’t jiggle.
- Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Tips:
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- For cleaner cuts, wipe your knife between each slice.
- Add a swirl of raspberry preserves for extra color and flavor.
- Don’t overbake; a slight jiggle in the center means a creamy texture.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Bright, refreshing lemon flavor
- Creamy texture with buttery crust
- Easy to make and serve
- Great for gatherings and meal prep
These Lemon Cheesecake Bars offer the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with a bright twist of lemon. Easy to prepare and serve, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion that calls for something sweet, tangy, and satisfying.
Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the center is just set and doesn’t jiggle.
- Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- For cleaner cuts, wipe your knife between each slice.
- Add a swirl of raspberry preserves for extra color and flavor.
- Don’t overbake; a slight jiggle in the center means a creamy texture.
