These lemon cheesecake bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a creamy, tangy lemon cheesecake filling. They're the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and are easy to make for any occasion.
20 min prep
40 min cook
16 servings
280 kcal/serving
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
16 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and powdered sugar. Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake crust for 15-18 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until combined.
Pour filling over warm crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Using parchment overhang, lift bars from pan. Cut into 16 squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
For extra lemon flavor, add a thin layer of lemon curd on top before chilling.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in refrigerator before serving.