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Lemon Cranberry Cheesecake Bars


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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 4 hours minimum (overnight for best results)
  • Yield: 12-16 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Lemon Cranberry Cheesecake Bars feature a creamy cheesecake filling with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a vibrant cranberry swirl. These bars strike the perfect balance of tangy lemon and tart cranberries, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.


Ingredients

  1. For the crust:
    • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
    • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
    • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  2. For the cheesecake filling:
    • 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
    • ½ cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
    • ½ cup sour cream
  3. For the cranberry swirl:
    • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
    • ½ cup granulated sugar
    • 2 tablespoons water
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice


Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

  1. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Finally, mix in the sour cream until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the cranberry swirl: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cranberry mixture over the cheesecake filling, then use a toothpick or knife to swirl the cranberry mixture into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
  4. Bake the bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  5. Chill and serve: Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow them to set completely. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.

Notes

  1. Store the Lemon Cranberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They are best served chilled.
  2. If you prefer, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
  3. For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
  4. For a different berry option, you can substitute cranberries with raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg