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Best Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 150 reviews
  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Best Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling swirled with bright lemon juice and zest. The tangy lemon marble adds a refreshing twist to the classic cheesecake flavor, making these bars a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until all crumbs are moistened. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Create the Lemon Marble: Pour about two-thirds of the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crust. To the remaining batter, add the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring gently to combine. Dollop this lemon-infused batter over the plain layer in the pan.
  5. Swirl the Batter: Using a knife or skewer, swirl the lemon batter gently into the plain layer to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct marbled patterns.
  6. Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Avoid overbaking to keep the texture creamy.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars and serving.

Notes

  • You can customize the lemon intensity by adjusting the amount of lemon juice and zest to your taste.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: lemon cheesecake bars, marbled cheesecake, lemon dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, easy cheesecake recipe

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Find it online: https://delishwithella.com/best-lemon-marbled-cheesecake-bars-recipe/