Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars + Easy Recipe

Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a creamy lemon filling and a crunchy oat crumb topping, these bars bring together the best of cheesecake and crumble desserts. Ideal for summer, these bars can be stored in the freezer for a cool treat or served fresh at a family gathering. They combine the sweet and tangy flavor of lemon with the richness of cream cheese, all held together with a buttery, oat-filled crust.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

These Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are not just delicious—they’re easy to make, too. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply craving a refreshing dessert, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick to whip up, requires minimal ingredients, and is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the combination of the creamy lemon filling and crumbly top is simply irresistible. These bars are perfect for a family-friendly dessert, and they can be made ahead, making them a fantastic option for busy days.

Ingredients

• Flour: The base of the crust, providing structure and texture.
• Old Fashioned Oats: Adds a chewy texture to the crust and contributes to the oat crumb topping.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the crust and filling.
• Baking Powder: Helps the crust rise slightly, giving it a light, crumbly texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds richness and a slight molasses flavor to the crust.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the crust and balances the tartness of the lemon filling.
• Cold Cubed Butter: Creates a flaky, buttery texture for the crust.
• Cream Cheese: Forms the creamy base of the cheesecake filling, providing richness and smoothness.
• Egg Yolks: Adds richness and helps to thicken the cheesecake filling.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to the filling.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
• Lemon Juice: Balances the sweetness of the filling with a tart kick.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Gluten-Free Flour: If you need a gluten-free option, swap regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free Butter: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter substitute.
• Non-Dairy Cream Cheese: You can also use a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for a fully dairy-free dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9″x13″ baking pan and line it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, salt, baking powder, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix well. Add the cold cubed butter and mix on medium-low speed until the mixture becomes crumbly.
2. Press the Crust: Take half of the crumbly oat mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Set the remaining mixture aside for the topping.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until combined. Gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing on medium speed for about 3 minutes. Then, lower the speed and add the lemon juice, mixing until well combined.
4. Assemble the Bars: Pour the creamy lemon cheesecake mixture over the pressed crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumb topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling.
5. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
6. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate them until they are icy cold and ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overmix: When making the cheesecake filling, be sure not to overmix the sweetened condensed milk. This helps prevent the mixture from becoming too runny.
• Freezer-Friendly: These bars freeze wonderfully! They can be kept in the freezer for several weeks, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
• Watch the Topping: Keep an eye on the crumb topping while baking. It should be golden and slightly crisp, not too dark.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are delicious on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of toppings or side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Fresh Berries: Serve the bars with a side of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a burst of fresh fruit.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of each bar for an extra creamy touch.
• Lemon Sauce: Drizzle some homemade lemon syrup over the bars for an additional tangy kick.

For a twist, try making Key Lime Cheesecake Crumb Bars by substituting lime juice and zest for the lemon, or experiment with adding a layer of fruit puree between the crust and filling for extra flavor.

A Sweet End to Your Meal

Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars will be a hit. The easy-to-follow recipe and versatile options make it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Conclusion

Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars offer the perfect combination of creamy lemon filling and a crunchy oat crust, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, these bars are sure to become a go-to treat, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. With a refreshing tang of lemon and a buttery crumble topping, every bite is a moment of indulgence. Plus, they can be made ahead and even stored in the freezer for a cool, refreshing treat. Don’t hesitate to try these out—the balance of flavors and textures is guaranteed to impress everyone who takes a bite!

FAQ

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