Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery crust with a tangy, smooth lemon-flavored filling, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar ⓘ
- 3/4 cup butter or margarine ⓘ
- 12 ounces evaporated milk ⓘ
- 2 eggs
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice ⓘ
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest ⓘ
- 1 to 2 drops yellow food coloring ⓘ
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar.
- Cut in butter until small crumbs form.
- Press the mixture lightly into the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow the crust to cool before adding the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add evaporated milk, eggs, lemon juice, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and yellow food coloring, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 25-30 minutes or until set.
- Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate before serving.
- Top with sour cream before serving if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cheesecake bar, consider using low-fat cream cheese and evaporated milk. You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice if needed, but fresh will yield a more vibrant flavor. If you want to add a twist, try incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the filling for extra depth. Always ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These creamy lemon cheesecake bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by topping them with a dollop of sour cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a citrus salad for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then enjoy cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Bars contains roughly 357 calories, with 4g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese provides the characteristic richness and tang, you can substitute with mascarpone for a creamier texture, or Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, but it can still be delicious!
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The cheesecake bars are done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool. If you overbake, they can become dry, so it's important to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just make sure to refrigerate them after cooling completely. They will taste even better after a night in the fridge, making them perfect for gatherings or parties.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).