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Easy Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Delightful lemon cheesecake bars featuring a creamy lemon filling over a graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.25 cups 1/4 cup sugar
  • 0.5 cups 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
  • 16 oz 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened Make sure cream cheese is at room temperature.
  • 1 cup 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large 3 large eggs Should be at room temperature.
  • 0.25 cups 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons lemon zest Zest from fresh lemons.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract preferred.

Method
 

Preparation of Crust
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until fully combined.
  3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let it cool.
Making the Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add in sugar, mixing well.
  3. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next.
Finalizing the Filling
  1. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined and the filling is smooth.
  2. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, then spread it out evenly.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggles.
Chill and Serve
  1. Once baked, allow bars to cool at room temperature.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing to prevent cracks. Chill thoroughly before slicing.