A delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with a zesty lemon twist, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust.
Prep Time30 minutesmins
Cook Time50 minutesmins
Total Time1 hourhr20 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheesecake, Easy
Servings: 12servings
Calories: 250kcal
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
9x13 inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
Crust
2cupsgraham cracker crumbs
1/2cupunsalted butter, melted
Filling
2cupscream cheese, softened
1cupgranulated sugar
3largeeggs
1/4cupfresh lemon juice
1tablespoonlemon zest
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1/4cupsour cream
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and sour cream until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Using a spoon, drop dollops of the remaining batter over the filling and swirl it gently with a knife for that beautiful marbled effect.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door ajar for an hour.
Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
These bars can be paired with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.