Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
• Cheesecake Layer:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Lemon Layer:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
• Topping:
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
   • Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake Layer:
   • Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Lemon Layer:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour.
   • Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and whisk until well combined.
   • Pour the lemon mixture over the baked cheesecake layer.
5. Bake the Lemon Layer:
   • Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon layer is set and slightly golden around the edges.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
   • Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your lemon cheesecake bars!