Description
Deliciously creamy Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large fresh lemons, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking pan, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a tablespoon of sugar. Press into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, mixing until combined. Add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract, then mix in eggs one at a time until blended.
- Pour two-thirds of the cheesecake filling over the crust. Add more lemon zest to the remaining mixture, then spoon dollops on top and use a knife to swirl.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set with a slight jiggle in the center. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing.
- Run a knife around the edges, cut into squares, and serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling. Consider adding a pinch of salt or fresh berries for a creative twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cheesecake, lemon, dessert, bars, sweet treats, family recipes