Lemon Cheesecake Bars: a decadent, zesty treat for any occasion

Lemon cheesecake bars have it all. From a buttery, tender crust to the decadent cheesecake layer topped off with a bright, lemony topping, each bite is absolutely divine. Lemon cheesecake bars are ideal for parties, potlucks, and picnics but make a great midday snack with a cup of tea or coffee or a sweet treat for a packed lunch.

They're simple to make, have the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, and are so tasty, you'll be making lemon cheesecake bars regularly.

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon cheesecake bars can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for your lemon cheesecake bars. This will give them the best flavor.

Make your lemon cheesecake bars gluten-free by swapping out the all-purpose flour for your preferred gluten-free option.

How to Store Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Keep your lemon cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Frozen cheesecake bars will last for up to 3 months. For best results, place a piece of parchment paper in between the layers so they don't stick together.

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Bars

For the crust

Preheat the oven to 325F. Place the butter, flour, sugar, and salt into a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients take on a coarse texture.

Gently but firmly press the flour mixture into a baking dish.

Bake for 12 to 13 minutes, then remove from the oven.

For the cheesecake

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

Beat in egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

Pour the milk.

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.

Bake for 15 minutes, then lower the heat to 300F.

For the lemon layer

In a second large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until well-combined.

Assembling and Baking Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Slowly pour the lemon mixture over the cheesecake layer.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, then remove from the oven and cool to room temperature.

Place in the fridge and chill for 3 hours. Dust with confectioner's sugar.

Slice, serve and enjoy!

Notes

Use a 9×13-inch baking dish to make your cheesecake bars.