Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars: A Refreshing Dessert Recipe
These lemon marbled cheesecake bars are the perfect blend of tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake, swirled together to create a stunning and delicious dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, marbled filling, these bars are ideal for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or anytime you crave a refreshing treat. Simple to make yet elegant in presentation, this recipe is sure to impress.
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours 20 minutes
Calories:
Approximately 280 kcal per bar
ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Yellow food coloring (optional, for a vibrant swirl)
Directions——————
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
Create the Marbled Effect:
Remove about 1/2 cup of the cheesecake filling and place it in a small bowl. Add a few drops of yellow food coloring (if using) and mix until evenly colored.
Pour the remaining plain cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
Drop spoonfuls of the yellow filling over the plain filling, then use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the two together to create a marbled effect.
Bake:
Bake the cheesecake bars for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
Chill:
Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set.
Serve:
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits, shortbread cookies, or even a gluten-free alternative.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze lemon marbled cheesecake bars?
Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I omit the food coloring?
Yes, the food coloring is optional. The lemon zest will still give the bars a lovely natural color.
5. Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracks. To prevent this, avoid overmixing the batter and cool the bars gradually.
Tools You'll Need
8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Toothpick or knife for swirling
Spatula
Tips
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.
Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting for clean, neat slices.
Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Allergy Information
Contains: Gluten, dairy, eggs
To make gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
To make dairy-free: Substitute with dairy-free cream cheese, butter, and sour cream alternatives.
Conclusion
These lemon marbled cheesecake bars are a delightful combination of tangy and creamy flavors, perfect for any occasion. With their beautiful marbled design and refreshing lemon taste, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results—your friends and family will be amazed! Enjoy!
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