Description
Delight in these luscious Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy lemon-infused cheesecake layer, and vibrant strawberry swirls for a refreshing, fruity dessert perfect for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Strawberry Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until well combined, then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly set, then remove and allow it to cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust, spreading gently. In a small bowl, mix the diced fresh strawberries with the strawberry jam. Spoon this strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, then use a knife to lightly swirl the berries into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let the bars cool to room temperature.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to fully set before slicing. For the cleanest slices, chill overnight and slice with a warm, sharp knife. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smoother cheesecake filling.
- For cleaner slicing, chill the bars overnight and use a warm, sharp knife when cutting.
- You can substitute raspberry jam and fresh raspberries for a delicious variation.
