Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)
• Servings: 16 bars
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the refreshing zest of lemon. Perfect for warm weather or special occasions, these bars are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. Their sweet, tangy flavor profile, coupled with the buttery graham cracker crust, makes them irresistible. The swirls of lemon add a pop of color and flavor, turning a classic dessert into something truly special. Plus, they’re easy to cut into portions, making them ideal for gatherings or simply enjoying at home.

How to Make Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish thoroughly so that the bars won’t stick after baking.

• Step 2: Mixing the Crust

  In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Use a fork or your hands to mix until all the crumbs are moistened and the mixture looks cohesive. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form an even crust.

• Step 3: Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling

  In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, making sure to mix well after each addition. Finally, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well-combined.

• Step 4: Baking

  Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Take a knife and gently swirl it through the cream cheese mixture to create a marbled effect. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set. Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature.

• Step 5: Chilling

  Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for a minimum of 4 hours before cutting them into squares. This chilling time allows the cheesecake to firm up and makes it easier to cut.

How to Serve Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

These Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled. Cut them into generous squares and place them on a decorative plate. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream on top. They make a lovely dessert for summer BBQs, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in!

How to Store Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Expert Tips for Perfect Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• If you want a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or zest.
• Use a sharp knife to create the swirls for a beautiful presentation.
• Be careful not to over-bake! The bars should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take them out of the oven.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour.

Delicious Variations

• Berry Topping: Top your cheesecake bars with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist and vibrant color.
• Chocolate Swirls: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top of the cheesecake before baking for a chocolate-lemon combination.
• Coconut: Fold in some shredded coconut to the cheesecake mixture for a tropical flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
  Yes, using low-fat cream cheese will work fine. However, it may slightly affect the creaminess of the bars.

• What if I don’t have lemon juice?
  You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different yet equally delightful taste.

• Can I make these bars ahead of time?
  Absolutely! These cheesecake bars keep well in the fridge. They can be made a day or two in advance.

• What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
  You can use crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free alternative.

• How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?
  The edges will be set and the center will have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools and chills.

Conclusion

Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat for your tastebuds but also a feast for your eyes. Their creamy texture, sweet and tangy flavor, and delightful presentation make them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—you’ll be greeted with compliments and requests for seconds! Enjoy your baking adventure!