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Finished lemon marbled cheesecake bars with fresh berries

Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars

A delightful dessert featuring a creamy cheesecake filling with a zesty lemon swirl, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 bars
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer
  • small saucepan
  • parchment paper

Ingredients
  

Crust Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs Provides a crunchy base for the cheesecake.
  • 0.25 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the crust.
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted butter Melted, binds the crust ingredients together.

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients

  • 16 oz Cream cheese Softened, forms the base of the cheesecake filling.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
  • 3 large Eggs Adds richness and structure to the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
  • 0.25 cup Sour cream Adds creaminess and tang to the filling.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh lemon juice Provides a fresh, zesty flavor.
  • 1 zest Lemon Adds aromatic citrus flavor.

Lemon Swirl Ingredients

  • 0.25 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the lemon swirl.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh lemon juice For the lemon swirl, adds tartness.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Thickens the lemon swirl mixture.
  • 1 zest Lemon Enhances the lemon flavor in the swirl.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  • In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the lemon swirl mixture over the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the lemon mixture into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake bars inside for an additional hour.
  • Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  • Using the parchment overhang, lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

Notes

Enjoy your Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and zesty lemon!
Keyword Bars, Cheesecake, dessert, lemon