Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a heavenly blend of creamy lemon filling and buttery oat crumble, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, attending a potluck, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars will delight everyone. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet crumble creates a perfect balance that will have your taste buds dancing.

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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 Again
• Step 7: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars
• With Fresh Berries
• With Whipped Cream
• With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
• With Ice Cream
• With Tea or Coffee
• 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
• What makes Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars so special?
• Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
• How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
• Can I make these bars gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars can be whipped up quickly.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, birthday party, or casual get-together.
• Deliciously Creamy: The lemon cheesecake filling is rich and creamy, providing a delightful contrast to the crumbly topping.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them ideal for busy schedules.
• Kid-Friendly Treat: Kids will love the sweet flavors, making it a great dessert option for family events.

Tools and Preparation

To make your creamy lemon cheesecake crumb bars easily, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes mixing the crumb mixture quick and effortless.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is necessary for combining the cheesecake filling ingredients smoothly.
• Baking pan: A 9×13-inch pan allows for even baking and easy cutting of bars.

Ingredients

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 combined.
2. Add the sliced cold butter, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Mix in the oats, pulsing gently until just combined.

Step 3: Create the Crust

1. Reserve 1 ½ cups of crumb mixture for topping.
2. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan evenly.
3. Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes until set.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

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

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

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

Step 6: Bake Again

Bake in your oven for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Store them in your refrigerator until you’re ready to serve these delightful treats!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are delightful on their own, but serving them with complementary items can enhance the experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Raspberries: Their tartness pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Strawberries: Slice them fresh for a sweet contrast.
• Blueberries: Add a pop of color and flavor to each bite.

With Whipped Cream

• Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop on top adds richness and lightness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try lemon or vanilla for an extra twist.

With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Simple Presentation: A light dusting makes the bars look elegant and adds a touch of sweetness.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess complements the cheesecake nicely.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing citrus kick that mirrors the bars.

With Tea or Coffee

• Herbal Tea: A soothing option that balances the sweetness.
• Espresso: The bold flavor is a great match for these crumb bars.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Perfecting your Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Blend just until combined to keep it light and airy.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the bars to cool completely helps them set and enhances flavors.
• Press Crust Firmly: A well-packed crust provides structure and prevents crumbling when cutting.
• Store in the Fridge: Keeping them chilled maintains freshness and texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars can create a more complete dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your plate.
2. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese complement the tanginess of the bars.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate contrasts nicely with the lemon flavor.
4. Mini Pastries: Assorted pastries offer variety and elegance alongside your dessert.
5. Nut Mixes: A savory nut mix can balance out the sweetness of the cheesecake bars.
6. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert provides a luxurious pairing that’s sure to impress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to avoid pitfalls:

• Not using room temperature cream cheese: Cold cream cheese doesn’t mix well and can lead to a lumpy filling. Always let it sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the cheesecake batter: This can introduce too much air, leading to cracks while baking. Mix until just combined for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting the bars too soon can result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Using fresh lemon juice without zest: The zest adds extra flavor and aroma that enhances the overall taste. Don’t skip this step!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and improper measurements can affect texture and flavor. Use proper measuring tools for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container.
• Frozen bars can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars so special?

The combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake layered with a buttery oat crumble creates an irresistible dessert that pleases everyone!

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemons with limes, berries, or even mangoes for different flavors.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Make sure to avoid overmixing your batter and allow the bars to cool slowly after baking. A water bath during baking can also help maintain moisture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for both the crust and crumble topping.

Final Thoughts

These Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings to make them uniquely yours. Give this easy dessert a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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