Name: Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars: A Delightful Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup all-purpose flour (approx 105 g); ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed) (approx 55 g); ¼ tsp salt; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (approx 56 g); 1 block cream cheese (250 g), softened; ⅓ cup granulated sugar (65 g); 2 tsp lemon zest; 1 large egg; ¼ cup plain full-fat yogurt (60 ml); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; lemon curd (small batch, chilled) (used to dollop & swirl through filling)

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Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible dessert that combines creamy lemon cheesecake with a deliciously simple crust, topped with a tangy homemade lemon curd. This delightful treat captures the essence of summer with its sweet and tart flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars will surely impress. Let’s dive into how to make this creamy lemon dessert recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

This Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars recipe is not just another dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this treat:

Bright and zesty flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for novice bakers.
Can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great choice for gatherings.
Versatile – enjoy it as a light dessert or a sweet snack.
Homemade lemon curd adds a unique twist to classic lemon cheesecake bars.
Perfect for sharing; cut them into small squares for a party-friendly dessert!

With its American cuisine roots, this recipe is truly the best lemon cheesecake bar recipe you’ll find!

Ingredients for Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Gather these items:

¾ cup all-purpose flour (approx 105 g)
¼ cup light brown sugar (packed) (approx 55 g)
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (approx 56 g)
1 block cream cheese (250 g), softened
⅓ cup granulated sugar (65 g)
2 tsp lemon zest
1 large egg
¼ cup plain full-fat yogurt (60 ml)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
lemon curd (small batch, chilled) (used to dollop & swirl through filling)

How to Make Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pre-heat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Reduce oven temperature to 325 °F (160-165 °C). Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and lemon zest and beat until creamy. Add the egg and beat until incorporated. Then mix in yogurt and vanilla extract just until combined.
Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread into an even layer. Dollop teaspoons of chilled lemon curd randomly over the surface, then use a skewer or butter knife to swirl the curd through the filling (avoid cutting into the crust).
Step 5: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly wobbly when moved. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating to help them set properly.
For a fun twist, try adding a layer of fresh berries on top!
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, perfect for a wider audience.

Best Ways to Serve Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

These bars can be served in various ways:

Top with whipped cream for an extra creamy touch.
Drizzle with a simple icing for added sweetness.
Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

To store, simply cover the bars and place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For meal prep, these bars can be made in advance; just slice them into squares after chilling. If you want to enjoy them warm, gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars?

The secret lies in using fresh lemon zest and curd, which enhance the flavor and provide that delightful tang. Make sure to not overbake them to keep them creamy.

Can I make Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars?

To avoid cracks, ensure your cream cheese is fully blended and the batter is smooth. Also, avoid overbaking to keep them creamy and soft.

Variations of Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

Add a swirl of raspberry or blueberry puree for a fruity twist.
Incorporate crushed graham crackers into the crust for added texture.
Try a no-bake version with similar ingredients for a chilled dessert.
Use different citrus fruits like lime or orange for a refreshing change.

These variations will keep your dessert experience exciting and flavorful!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast!

Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars: A Delightful Treat - Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars - additional detail

For more tips on baking, you can refer to this cheesecake tips guide to ensure your bars turn out perfectly!

Enjoy your Swirled Lemon Cheesecake Bars and happy baking!