Creamy baked lemon cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust and a bright, tangy lemon flavor—easy, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:15 mins
Cook Time:35 mins
Total Time:50 mins + chilling
Yield:12 bars 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Bake crust for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid air bubbles.
Mix in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until creamy.
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing.
Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
For extra lemon flavor, add an additional teaspoon of zest.
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter.