Quick Overview

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet. This delightful dessert features a smooth and rich filling nestled between buttery crumb layers. They are ideal for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a treat to brighten your day. With their refreshing citrus flavor and creamy texture, these bars will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that you can whip up in no time.

Ingredient Breakdown

H4 – Graham Cracker Crumbs

You will need 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs for the base of these bars. These crumbs provide a crunchy texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

H4 – Unsalted Butter

Use ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, melted. The butter binds the crumbs together while adding richness to the crust.

H4 – Granulated Sugar

Add ⅓ cup of granulated sugar to enhance the sweetness of the crust and filling. This sugar helps balance the tanginess of the lemon.

H4 – Cream Cheese

You will require 16 oz (two packages) of softened cream cheese for the filling. This ingredient creates a rich and creamy texture essential for cheesecakes.

H4 – Fresh Lemon Juice

Freshly squeezed juice from 2 large lemons (approximately ¼ cup) adds a vibrant zest to the filling. It brightens up the flavors and provides that signature lemon taste.

H4 – Egg

One large egg is necessary for binding the ingredients in the filling together while giving it structure as it bakes.

H4 – Powdered Sugar

A cup of powdered sugar is needed to sweeten the filling without making it grainy like granulated sugar would.

Step By Step Recipe: Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

H4 – Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.

H4 – Make the Crust Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup melted unsalted butter, and ⅓ cup granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and crumbly consistency forms. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish using your fingers or a flat-bottomed measuring cup.

H4 – Bake the Crust

Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

H4 – Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer on medium speed. Gradually add in 1 cup powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.

H4 – Add Eggs and Lemon Juice

Once smooth, add one large egg and freshly squeezed juice from two lemons to your mixture. Beat until just combined; avoid over-mixing at this stage to ensure your cheesecake stays light and fluffy.

H4 – Pour Filling Over Crust

Carefully pour your cream cheese filling over the cooled crust in an even layer using a spatula to spread it gently if needed. Smooth out any bumps or air bubbles for an appealing finish.

H4 – Bake Cheesecake Bars

Return your dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature before chilling them in the fridge for at least two hours.

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Serving and Storing Tips

H4 – Cut into Squares

Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles for serving. Wipe down your knife between cuts to achieve clean edges on each bar.

H4 – Serve Chilled

For best flavor and texture, serve these bars chilled straight from the refrigerator. The creamy filling tastes refreshing alongside coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings or parties.

H4 – Store Properly

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Ensure they are covered well to prevent drying out while maintaining their delicious flavor.

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are bound to become a favorite dessert among friends and family alike! Enjoy making them as much as you love eating them!

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Tips and tricks

To achieve perfect Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars, start with room temperature cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your mixture, so let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using it. This step ensures a smooth filling that blends well with other ingredients.

When zesting lemons, use a microplane or fine grater to get the most flavor without adding bitter pith. The zest provides an intense lemon aroma that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Remember to wash the lemons thoroughly before zesting to remove any wax or pesticides.

For added texture, consider incorporating crushed graham crackers into your crumb crust mixture. This will give an extra crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling. Mix them with melted butter and sugar until combined; then press firmly into your baking dish for a solid base.

Using a sharp knife to slice your chilled bars will yield cleaner edges. For best results, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts. This technique prevents the filling from sticking to the blade and maintains a beautiful presentation.

Lastly, feel free to experiment with toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries on top of your baked bars before serving. These additions can enhance both taste and visual appeal, making your dessert more enticing and enjoyable for guests.

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Summary

In summary, making Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars involves avoiding common mistakes such as overmixing and improper chilling times while applying helpful tips like using room temperature cream cheese and experimenting with toppings or citrus variations. By following these guidelines along with proper storage methods, you can create delicious treats that everyone will love!

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