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Irresistible Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Irresistible Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

These Irresistible Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars combine a crisp graham cracker crust with a creamy, tangy lemon-infused cheesecake layer swirled with vibrant lemon curd. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and tartness, they are an elegant and refreshing dessert ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup lemon curd

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Begin by combining your graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir these three ingredients together until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your greased 8×8 inch baking dish, forming an even layer that will serve as the base of your cheesecake bars.
  2. Blind Bake the Crust: Place your baking dish with the crust into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This short bake time helps to set and slightly crisp the crust, ensuring it holds up under the cheesecake layer. After baking, set it aside to cool slightly as you prepare the cheesecake batter.
  3. Create the Cheesecake Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, making sure the mixture is creamy and free of lumps. Introduce the eggs one by one, mixing the batter gently to maintain its airy texture. Finally, incorporate the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, blending these in thoroughly.
  4. Add the Lemon Swirl: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. Using a spoon, dot the top of this layer with small dollops of lemon curd. To achieve the marbled effect, take a toothpick or knife and swirl the lemon curd into the cheesecake mixture. This technique blends the layers beautifully and enhances the visual appeal.
  5. Final Baking: Return the baking dish to the oven, allowing the bars to bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll want to see a lightly set center, which will continue to firm up as it cools. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. For the best texture and easiest slicing, refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours before serving.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
  • Do not overbake; the center should be slightly jiggly when removed from the oven.
  • Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours or overnight for best slicing and texture.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
  • To prevent cracking, avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon cheesecake bars, lemon marbled cheesecake, easy cheesecake bars, lemon curd dessert, creamy cheesecake bars

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/irresistible-lemon-marbled-cheesecake-bars-recipe/