Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and buttery flavors. Ideal for any occasion, these bars feature a luscious lemon cheesecake filling nestled between layers of sweet oat crumble. They’re perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply sharing with friends. The unique combination of textures and flavors makes them an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crumb Crust & Topping:
• For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
• How to Make Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Mixture
• Step 3: Create the Crust
• Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
• Step 5: Assemble the Bars
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Cool Before Serving
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• For a Refreshing Treat
• As a Party Platter
• Pairing with Beverages
• How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• Reheating Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars so special?
• Can I customize my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars?
• How do I know when my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are done?
• Can I make these bars ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are beginner-friendly.
• Refreshing Flavor: The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that is perfect for warm weather.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for any gathering, from family dinners to summer BBQs.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance and chilled until ready to serve, making them perfect for busy schedules.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The balance of creamy cheesecake and crumbly topping is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Saves time by quickly mixing the crumb crust and cheesecake filling.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking pan: A 9×13-inch size ensures even baking and easy serving.

Ingredients

For the Crumb Crust & Topping:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar
• 1 cup cold butter, sliced
• 1 ½ cups oats

For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

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How to Make Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with greased aluminum foil for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Mixture

In a food processor, pulse together the flour and brown sugar until combined.
Add the cold butter slices and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Finally, add the oats and pulse again just until everything is combined.

Step 3: Create the Crust

Reserve 1 ½ cups of the crumb mixture for topping.
Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add in three eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition.
Mix in milk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until you achieve a creamy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the cheesecake mixture over your baked crust evenly.
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the cheesecake layer, pressing it gently into place.

Step 6: Bake

Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve these delightful treats!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Serving Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars can elevate any occasion. These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a delightful addition to your dessert table.

For a Refreshing Treat

• With Fresh Berries: Top the bars with a handful of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess and sweetness.

As a Party Platter

• Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: Perfect for gatherings, cut the bars into smaller squares for easy snacking.
• Drizzle with Lemon Glaze: A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice adds an extra zing.

Pairing with Beverages

• Iced Tea: The refreshing taste of iced tea complements the tangy flavor of the cheesecake bars perfectly.
• Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water enhances the experience without overpowering the dessert.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the cream cheese mix smoothly, creating a creamy filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Filling: Mix just until combined to prevent air bubbles that could cause cracks.
• Cool Gradually: Let the bars cool at room temperature before refrigerating; this helps maintain their texture.
• Use a Quality Baking Pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and makes it easier to cut clean edges.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be enjoyed with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness that balances the richness of the bars.
2. Ice Cream: Vanilla or lemon sorbet serves as a perfect creamy companion to these tangy treats.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast to sweetness.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or pretzels in chocolate fondue for an indulgent pairing.
5. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cheesecake bars.
6. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some granola on top for added crunch and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making these Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always bring your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature. This ensures a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
• Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can incorporate excess air into the batter, causing cracks. Blend just until smooth.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
• Not greasing the pan properly: Grease your baking pan well or use parchment paper to make removing the bars easier after baking.
• Ignoring bake time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cheesecake, while underbaking may result in a gooey center.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars so special?

These bars combine a creamy lemon cheesecake filling with a buttery oat crumble, making them both tangy and sweet.

Can I customize my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like raspberry or blueberry, or even mix in chocolate chips for added sweetness.

How do I know when my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are done?

The top should be lightly browned and set. A slight jiggle is okay; they will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars store well in the refrigerator and are perfect for preparing a day in advance.

Final Thoughts

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or a family gathering. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings!

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