Berry-Lemon Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with a refreshing twist of lemon and a burst of berry goodness. Whether you're hosting a summer picnic or just craving a delightful dessert, these bars hit the spot every time.
The base of the bars is a classic graham cracker crust. Graham cracker crumbs give a sweet, slightly nutty foundation. Sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while butter binds it all together, providing a rich flavor and a crispy texture after baking.
For the cheesecake layer, cream cheese is your star player, offering a smooth, creamy texture. Sugar sweetens the mix, while eggs help set the filling, giving it structure. Lemon juice and lemon zest bring a bright, refreshing tang. A hint of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors beautifully.
The final touch is the mixed fresh berries, which add a juicy burst of flavor and a pop of color, making these bars as pretty as they are tasty.
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a special touch, garnish with a sprig of mint or a thin lemon slice. They pair beautifully with a glass of chilled lemonade or a light white wine.
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This makes removing the bars later a breeze.
Next, grab a medium bowl and combine your graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix them until you get a sandy texture. Press this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish to form a crust. Pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes until it's lightly golden. Once done, let it cool slightly while you work on the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
Pour this creamy mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Now, scatter your fresh berries over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be set while the center remains slightly jiggly.
Once baked, let the whole thing cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 3 hours. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing a breeze. When you're ready, cut into bars and enjoy!
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