Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Craving Lemon cheesecake bars These creamy lemon crumb bars are sunshine on a plate An easy lemon dessert perfect for tea Get the recipe now ... Healthy Eats
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of sunshine on a plate? Lemon cheesecake bars are where it's at! Honestly, is there anything more cheering than that zingy, creamy, crumbly combo?
Brief Overview
These lemon cheesecake squares are inspired by classic American baking. They've got a touch of that proper English afternoon tea vibe.
Think of it as the best of both worlds! It's an easy recipe, taking about an hour and twenty minutes.
That includes some chill time, and it yields sixteen bars.
Main Benefits
These bars pack a Vitamin C punch. All thanks to the lemon! Plus, they're perfect for brightening up any afternoon.
What makes these creamy lemon crumb bars special? They are stupidly easy to make. But they taste like you've been slaving away for hours!
This easy lemon dessert is surprisingly versatile.
Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Get Ready to Bake!
Seriously, who doesn't love a good bar recipe? Now these babies. These lemon cheesecake bars recipe are something else! They bring that lovely cheesecake richness together with the brightness of lemon.
Oh my gosh, it is a match made in heaven.
It all starts with that buttery crumb crust. A little secret? Use really cold butter! It makes all the difference.
I once tried using softened butter. What a disaster! Let's just say it didn't resemble coarse crumbs.
What’s So Great About These Lemon Bar Variations ?
Okay, so you might be thinking "another lemon bar recipe?" But hear me out. These aren't just any homemade lemon bars .
It's all about that cheesecake filling. It adds a whole other dimension. It's a slight tang that complements the lemon perfectly.
Now, I'm not gonna lie. I do love a good crumble dessert! These bars are just the ticket, combining that buttery, crumbly texture with a creamy lemon center.
I was looking for cheesecake crumb bar recipe . This recipe became the winner.
Ingredients & Equipment For Your Lemon cheesecake bars Adventure
Alright, ready to dive into making these dreamy Lemon cheesecake bars ? Honestly, the ingredients are pretty straightforward. Even if you are a beginner, you will be enjoying the best Lemon cheesecake squares ever! Let's get started!
Crumbly Goodness: Base & Topping
We're building that iconic base first. You'll need 1 ½ cups (192g) all-purpose flour. Don't forget ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar and a pinch of ¼ teaspoon (1.
5g) salt. The real star? ¾ cup (170g / 6 oz) of cold, cubed unsalted butter. This butter needs to be cold ! Zest of 1 lemon can be added for extra zing.
I like to use European butter.
The Creamy Lemon Heart
Now, for the luscious lemon cheesecake filling. Grab 8 ounces (226g) of softened cream cheese. Seriously, make sure it's soft.
Nobody likes lumpy cheesecake. Add in ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar. A single large egg and 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour come next.
Finally, ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice – about 1-2 lemons should do it. I really like to use a Meyer lemon for extra zesty lemon bar variations .
And for the finishing touch, add 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract and zest of 1 lemon.
Seasoning Notes
Essential spices? It's all about that lemon zest here, mates. It brings a HUGE burst of flavor. As for flavor enhancers, good quality vanilla makes all the difference.
If you're feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of cardamom can work wonders.
Need a quick sub? If you are out of vanilla, almond extract will give a nice flavour.
Essential Kit
Right, what gear do we need? You’ll want a 9x9 inch baking pan and some parchment paper. Seriously, parchment paper is your friend here.
Also, a medium mixing bowl and an electric mixer – handheld or stand mixer, take your pick. Pastry cutter or food processor could be handy too, but not essential.
Lastly, measuring cups and spoons, a zester, and a lemon juicer, of course. Remember: A 9x13 inch pan would do too, but results would be a bit thinner, and baking time would need to be adjusted
Honestly, making these Lemon cheesecake bars recipe is easier than you think. The Lemon cheesecake bar calories are so worth it.
Homemade lemon bars are a great pleasure. Enjoy these Easy lemon dessert. These Lemon cheesecake squares also are a good addition to your list of Lemon dessert recipes easy .
Baking Your Way to Happiness: Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Oh my gosh, you need these Lemon cheesecake bars in your life! Seriously. These aren't just any dessert. They're like a hug in bar form.
They have a bright, zesty lemon flavor with the creamy richness of cheesecake. It's all between buttery, crumbly layers. If you are looking for lemon dessert recipes easy these Lemon cheesecake bars will not disappoint.
Prep Like a Pro: Essential Mise en Place
Alright, let's get organised. It's all about that mise en place, you know? We need flour, sugar, lemon, cream cheese, butter.
.. all the good stuff! Soften your cream cheese beforehand. Trust me on this one. Also, get your baking pan ready, lining it with parchment paper.
Then you're saving yourself a headache later. This Lemon cheesecake bars recipe will change your life! Honestly it is a great citrus dessert recipes .
Bake to Perfection: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Get that 9x9 inch baking pan ready with parchment.
- Make the crumb. Mix flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Remember, cold butter is key.
- Press 2/3 of the crumb into the pan. Then you are creating that lovely base.
- Pre-bake this crust for 10 minutes. This makes sure your base is stable.
- Mix softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, lemon juice, flour, vanilla and lemon zest. Mix until smooth. Do not over mix!
- Pour your lemon cheesecake filling over the crust. Sprinkle with remaining crumb.
- Bake for 25- 30 minutes , until golden brown. Keep an eye on it.
- Cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Pro Tips for Lemon Cheesecake Perfection
Don't over-mix that cheesecake filling. It’s a common mistake, honest. Over-mixing leads to cracks. Now, you can even make the crumb mixture a day ahead. Then just keep it in the fridge.
These Creamy lemon cheesecake squares are one of a kind.
Lemon cheesecake bar calories depend on how generous you're with your slices. These homemade Lemon bars are a delightful treat!
Recipe Notes
These Lemon cheesecake bars are more than just an easy lemon dessert ; they're a little slice of sunshine. Sharing some insights and experiences I’ve gathered along the way so you can make the best Lemon cheesecake bars recipe ever!
Serving Suggestions: Show Them Off!
These Lemon cheesecake squares are gorgeous. I like to plate them with a simple dusting of powdered sugar. It's like adding a little sparkle! Alternatively, adding fresh berries on the side brightens the flavor.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into a full-blown dessert. I even once paired them with a glass of Prosecco.
Honestly, it was divine!
Storage Tips: Keep Them Fresh
These Creamy lemon crumb bars are best stored in the fridge. Pop them in an airtight container, and they'll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
I have tried freezing them too, it works! Cut them into individual squares first, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
They'll keep for about a month. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Or, you can microwave for a few seconds.
Variations: Make It Your Own!
Want to switch things up? Try adding a handful of blueberries to the filling. It adds a lovely burst of juicy sweetness.
For a lemon bar variation , mix in some poppy seeds to the crust for a bit of texture. For gluten-free friends, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
Remember to adjust the liquid slightly as needed. I've used almond flour before, it gives a nice nutty flavor.
Nutrition Basics: Guilt-Free Treats?
Let's be real, this is Homemade lemon bars are a treat. I estimate each bar has about 250-300 Lemon cheesecake bar calories .
This will vary, obviously, depending on ingredients and serving size. Lemons provide Vitamin C, and the cream cheese adds a bit of protein.
But, keep in mind the sugar and butter content. I think the zesty lemon brightness makes it one of my favorite Citrus dessert recipes .
I hope you love these Lemon cheesecake bars as much as I do. With these Lemon dessert recipes easy , you are one step away from becoming a baking master.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make them your own! Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Lemon Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, these bars are even better the next day. Make sure to cool them completely, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just like a good cuppa, they're worth the wait.
Why did my Lemon Cheesecake Bars crack?
Cracking in cheesecake bars is usually caused by over-mixing the filling or baking at too high a temperature. Mix the filling until just combined, avoiding excess air. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate – an oven thermometer can be a baker's best friend!
How do I store my Lemon Cheesecake Bars?
To keep your Lemon Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll last for about 3 days, but let's be honest, they probably won't stick around that long! You can also freeze them for up to a month; just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh for these Lemon Cheesecake Bars?
While fresh lemon juice provides the best, brightest flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, you may want to add a little extra lemon zest to compensate for the slightly less intense flavor. Think of it like using tinned tomatoes instead of fresh in a pasta sauce – it works, but it's not quite the same.
What if I don't have a 9x9 inch pan? Can I still make these Lemon Cheesecake Bars?
You can certainly adapt the recipe! A similar sized pan will work, but baking times may need slight adjustments. If you use a larger pan, the bars will be thinner, so check for doneness a bit earlier. A smaller pan will result in thicker bars, requiring a longer bake time. Just keep an eye on them, like watching for soggy bottoms on Bake Off!
Are Lemon Cheesecake Bars healthy?
Let's be realistic, these are a treat, so moderation is key! They do contain dairy and sugar, so they're not the healthiest option. However, you can make some healthier swaps, like using a sugar substitute or low-fat cream cheese. Everything in moderation, even delicious Lemon Cheesecake Bars!
