Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these cheesecake bars so irresistible. Understanding the role of each component will help you achieve the best possible results and even make substitutions if necessary.

• Graham Crackers: These are the foundation of our buttery and slightly crunchy crust. For the best texture, ensure the graham crackers are crushed very finely. A food processor works best, but a zip-top bag and rolling pin will also do the trick.
• Unsalted Butter: The melted butter acts as a binder, holding the graham cracker crumbs together to create the crust. Unsalted butter is preferred to control the overall saltiness of the bars.
• Cream Cheese: This is the star of the cheesecake filling! It is vital to use blocks of full-fat cream cheese for the signature dense yet creamy texture. Reduced-fat versions can lead to a watery or rubbery consistency, which we definitely want to avoid. Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for smooth blending. Leaving it out for about 30 minutes before starting is usually sufficient. Philadelphia cream cheese is a popular choice for its creamy results, but any brand of full-fat cream cheese will work well.
• Sugar: The sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness to complement the tangy cream cheese. Adjust the quantity slightly to your taste, but be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the texture of the filling.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: A touch of fresh lemon zest and juice brightens up the cheesecake filling and balances its richness. The lemon adds a subtle zing that enhances all the other flavors. Don’t skip this if you want a truly exceptional cheesecake bar!
• Vanilla Extract: A high-quality vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cheesecake filling, adding depth and complexity.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for setting the cheesecake filling during baking and giving it that classic cheesecake texture. They also contribute to the richness and creaminess of the final product.

For precise measurements and detailed information on ingredients, please refer to the recipe card below.

Ready to get started? Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making these irresistible cheesecake bars. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a batch of delicious, creamy treats.

1. Crush the Graham Crackers: The first step is to create the graham cracker crust. Use a food processor to grind the graham crackers into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, simply seal the graham crackers in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs. The finer the crumbs, the better the texture of the crust.
2. Combine Crumbs and Butter: In a medium-sized bowl, add the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and the melted unsalted butter. Stir the mixture together until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter. This will ensure that the crust holds together nicely.

3. Press the Crust: Prepare your 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Pour the graham cracker mixture into the prepared pan and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom. For the most compact crust, use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to press down firmly. This will help the crust hold its shape and prevent it from crumbling when you slice the bars.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for ensuring a silky texture. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until each egg is combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can incorporate too much air and cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.
5. Pour and Spread: Once the cheesecake filling is ready, pour it evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the batter smoothly and ensure it reaches all corners of the pan. This will give you a perfectly smooth top on your cheesecake bars.

6. Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the baking pan in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake is just slightly jiggly. Remember, it will continue to set as it cools. Overbaking can lead to a dry or cracked cheesecake, so keep a close eye on it. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set fully.

Follow these expert tips to ensure your cheesecake bars turn out perfectly every time:

• Use a Warm Knife for Clean Slices: For those perfectly clean-cut slices you see in the photos, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water. Before each cut, dry the knife with a clean towel. Warming the knife and wiping it clean after each slice is the secret to professional-looking bars. This technique is also fantastic for cutting brownies cleanly.
• Ensure Cream Cheese is Fully Softened: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature. This is absolutely crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. If the cream cheese is not soft enough, it will be difficult to blend properly, and you may end up with lumps in your filling.
• Don’t Overbeat the Eggs: Be careful not to overbeat the eggs when making the cheesecake filling. Beat them just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.
• Skip the Lemon if Desired: While the lemon juice and zest enhance the tanginess and overall flavor of the cheesecake bars, they will still taste delicious without them. If you prefer a more straightforward vanilla cheesecake, feel free to omit the lemon.
• Consider a Graham Cracker Substitution: Need an alternative to graham crackers? Biscoff cookies or vanilla wafers make excellent substitutes! Both options are incredibly delicious and pair beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling.

These lemon cheesecake bars are the perfect dessert for meal prepping! They can be made up to two days in advance and stored, well-covered, in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. This makes them ideal for parties, potlucks, or any other event where you want to have a delicious dessert ready to go without any last-minute fuss.

These bars also freeze extremely well. To freeze, place cooled bars (whether cut into individual servings or left whole) on a plate and freeze uncovered until solid. Then, wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil, seal in a freezer bag, and store in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw the cheesecake bars in the refrigerator overnight. This will preserve the texture and flavor of the bars, ensuring they are as enjoyable as the day they were made.

While a simple dollop of homemade whipped cream with a sprinkle of lemon zest is undeniably delightful, these cheesecake bars offer a blank canvas for your favorite toppings. Here are a few delicious and creative ideas to elevate your cheesecake bars to the next level:

• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the cheesecake bars for a decadent treat.
• Bourbon Caramel Sauce: Add a touch of sophistication with a drizzle of homemade bourbon caramel sauce.
• Butterscotch Sauce: Create a sweet and buttery flavor by drizzling butterscotch sauce.
• Blueberry Sauce: Top the bars with a vibrant blueberry sauce for a burst of fresh fruit flavor.
• Sugared Cranberries: Add a festive touch during the holiday season with sugared cranberries.
• Fresh Fruit: Top with sliced blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and a touch of color.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and nutty flavor.