Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances creamy, tangy flavors with a buttery crumb topping. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. Their unique combination of textures and flavors makes them an irresistible dessert option.

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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 Until Set
• Step 7: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• Add Fresh Berries
• Serve with Whipped Cream
• Pair with Ice Cream
• Drizzle Lemon Glaze
• Garnish with Mint
• Offer Coffee or Tea
• 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
• How do I make my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars firmer?
• What can I substitute for lemon juice?
• Can I use gluten-free flour?
• How long do Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy lemon cheesecake and sweet oat crumble creates a deliciously satisfying dessert.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, making these bars is a breeze for any home cook.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events, you can enjoy them any time!
• Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making them great for meal prep or last-minute guests.
• Kid-Friendly: With their sweet flavor and fun texture, kids love these bars—making them a hit at family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool is key for easily combining ingredients into a crumbly texture without much effort.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine the cheesecake filling thoroughly without spillage.
• Baking pan: A 9×13-inch baking pan is perfect for achieving even cooking and cutting uniform bars.

Ingredients

For the Crumb Crust & Topping:

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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Mixture

In a food processor:
1. Pulse together the flour and brown sugar until mixed well.
2. Add cold butter slices and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add oats and pulse again until just combined.

Step 3: Create the Crust

1. Reserve 1 ½ cups of the crumb mixture for topping.
2. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
3. Bake for about 10 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition.
3. Mix in milk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over your baked crust evenly.
2. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top and gently press it down.

Step 6: Bake Until Set

Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the topping is lightly browned.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few creative serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to make your dessert even more enjoyable.

Add Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top add a burst of freshness and color to your bars.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream complements the tangy cheesecake filling beautifully, enhancing its creamy texture.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or lemon sorbet served alongside the crumb bars creates a delicious contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Drizzle Lemon Glaze

• A light lemon glaze drizzled over the bars adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the lemon flavor.

Garnish with Mint

• Fresh mint leaves not only look great but also provide a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the bars.

Offer Coffee or Tea

• Serving these bars with a cup of coffee or herbal tea can make for a comforting dessert experience.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing cream cheese and eggs to room temperature helps them blend smoothly without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the filling light and airy, preventing it from becoming dense.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely before cutting. Chilling them in the fridge enhances their texture and flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before baking; add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter cheesecake.
• Lemon Zest Matters: Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor. It brightens up the bars and adds a lovely aroma.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different; watch closely as they bake to avoid overcooking. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

While these crumb bars are delightful alone, pairing them with side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert spread. Here are some complementary options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cheesecake bars perfectly.
2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the bars.
3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a satisfying contrast that complements the tanginess of lemon.
4. Mini Croissants
   Flaky croissants served warm bring a buttery flavor that harmonizes nicely with lemon desserts.
5. Pistachio Brittle
   The nutty sweetness of pistachio brittle provides an interesting texture against the creamy cheesecake bars.
6. Lemon Sorbet
   This refreshing frozen treat enhances the citrus notes in your cheesecake while cleansing the palate between bites.
7. Coconut Macaroons
   Chewy macaroons add another layer of sweetness and texture that pairs wonderfully with creamy desserts like these bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not letting the bars cool completely before cutting can result in messy slices. Always allow them to cool in the fridge for at least a couple of hours.
• Overmixing the cheesecake filling: Mixing too vigorously can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in your cheesecake. Blend just until smooth.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese doesn’t blend well, leading to lumps in your filling. Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese for a silky texture.
• Neglecting to grease the pan: Failing to grease your baking pan may result in sticking. Always grease or line the pan with parchment paper.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid and warming for about 2-3 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars firmer?

To achieve a firmer texture, consider adding an extra egg or reducing the amount of milk slightly.

What can I substitute for lemon juice?

If you’re out of lemon juice, you can use lime juice or a splash of vinegar as an alternative.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes! You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends that measure cup-for-cup.

How long do Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars last?

These bars will stay fresh for about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, you can easily customize them by adding different flavors or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family!