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No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars

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No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a light, creamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy lemon filling. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or easy make-ahead treats, they deliver citrusy flavor without ever turning on the oven.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 9 to 12 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream, lemon zest, thin lemon slices

Instructions

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined.
  2. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
  3. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla. Beat until creamy.
  4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
  5. Gently fold whipped cream into lemon cream cheese mixture until smooth and airy.
  6. Spread filling over chilled crust and smooth the top.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until set.
  8. Slice into bars and garnish with toppings if desired.

Notes

  • Use vanilla wafer or shortbread crust for a variation.
  • Add a swirl of berry jam on top before chilling for a fruity twist.
  • Fold in chopped berries for texture.
  • Store in fridge for up to 5 days; do not freeze.
  • For clean cuts, wipe the knife between each slice.

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