Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and additional lemon zest for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Line an 8×8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the lemon cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until set.
- Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the baking dish. Cut into desired shapes and sizes.
- If desired, top the bars with whipped cream and additional lemon zest before serving.
These no-bake lemon cheesecake bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a sweet treat, they are easy to make and sure to impress.
Enjoy the creamy, tangy flavor of the lemon cheesecake and the satisfying crunch of the graham cracker crust. You won’t be able to resist a second helping!
Here are some additional tips and tricks for making these delicious no-bake lemon cheesecake bars:
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon juice and zest to the cheesecake mixture. You can also add a few drops of lemon extract if you want an even stronger lemon taste.
- If you don’t have a food processor or blender to make graham cracker crumbs, you can place the graham crackers in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they are finely crushed.
- If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to chill the cheesecake bars for several hours, you can place them in the freezer for 1-2 hours instead. This will help them set more quickly and be ready to eat sooner.
- To make clean and even slices, use a sharp knife that has been heated in hot water and dried. This will make it easier to cut through the chilled cheesecake without it sticking or breaking.
- You can also try adding a layer of fresh berries or fruit on top of the cheesecake mixture before chilling. This will add a burst of color and flavor to the bars and make them even more refreshing.
Overall, these no-bake lemon cheesecake bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just want a sweet treat to enjoy on a warm day, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more!
Here are a few more ideas to customize and serve these no-bake lemon cheesecake bars:
- Try adding a drizzle of raspberry or blueberry sauce on top of the whipped cream for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
- You can also serve the cheesecake bars with fresh fruit on the side, such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
- To make the bars extra pretty, dust a little powdered sugar on top just before serving. This will give them a beautiful, finished look.
- If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. You can also use almond meal or crushed nuts as a substitute.
- For a more decadent dessert, try adding a layer of melted chocolate on top of the graham cracker crust before adding the cheesecake mixture.
- If you’re serving these bars at a party, consider cutting them into bite-sized squares instead of larger pieces. This will make them easier to eat and more suitable for sharing.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these no-bake lemon cheesecake bars are a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re simple to make, refreshing, and packed with delicious lemon flavor that everyone will love.