Can I make Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well, so you can make them ahead and keep them in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving for a fresh taste.

Can I use a different type of crust for the Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars?

Absolutely! While the oat crust adds a wonderful texture, you can swap it out for a graham cracker crust for a more traditional cheesecake base. You can also experiment with a gluten-free option by using gluten-free oats and flour.

What can I do if I don't have fresh lemon juice for the filling?

If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. However, fresh lemon juice tends to give a brighter, more vibrant flavor, so it's recommended if possible. Alternatively, you can use lemon concentrate or lemon extract for a different twist on the flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor of the cheesecake filling?

To enhance the flavor of the cheesecake filling, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or even a dash of vanilla extract. A little bit of lemon zest can elevate the fresh lemon flavor and add a nice aromatic touch. For extra richness, you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a splash of lemon liqueur to the filling before baking.

Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars + Easy Recipe

Name: Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/3 cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 1/3 cups Old Fashioned Oats; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Cold Cubed Butter; 8 ounces Cream Cheese, Room Temperature; 3 Egg Yolks; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest; 2 (14 ounce) Cans Sweetened Condensed Milk; 1 cup Fresh Lemon Juice

Description

Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a perfect blend of creamy, tangy lemon filling and a crumbly oat crust, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion. These bars can be enjoyed fresh or kept in the freezer for a cool treat during the summer months.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/3 cups All-Purpose Flour
2 1/3 cups Old Fashioned Oats
1 teaspoon Salt
2 teaspoons Baking Powder
1 cup Brown Sugar
1 cup Granulated Sugar
1 cup Cold Cubed Butter
8 ounces Cream Cheese, Room Temperature
3 Egg Yolks
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest
2 (14 ounce) Cans Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 cup Fresh Lemon Juice

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9″x13″ baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Butter the parchment paper for easy removal.
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.
Take half of the crumb mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Set the remaining mixture aside.
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.
Lower the mixer speed and add the fresh lemon juice, mixing until well combined.
Pour the creamy lemon cheesecake mixture over the pressed crust and sprinkle the reserved crumb topping over the top of the cheesecake filling.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating them until cold.

Notes

These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can be substituted.
The bars freeze well and can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and oats.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 345
Sugar: 29g
Sodium: 345mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg