Description
These Zesty Lemon Cream Dream Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, tangy lemon cheesecake filling swirled with sweet raspberry preserves. Perfectly baked and chilled to set, they make a refreshing and elegant dessert garnished with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Additional
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
- Fresh raspberries, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Create the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to ensure a smooth mixture. Then mix in sour cream, all-purpose flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined and silky.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese lemon mixture evenly over the crust. Spoon raspberry preserves by dollops across the filling. Use a knife to gently swirl the preserves through the cream cheese layer for a marbled effect.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges begin to lightly brown. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature to prevent cracking, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Garnish & Serve: Before serving, garnish each bar with fresh raspberries, a slice of lemon, and a dollop of whipped cream for a fresh and decorative finish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix eggs to prevent excess air, which can cause cracks.
- Chilling the bars is essential for clean slicing and optimal texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor impact.
- Swirling the preserves is optional but adds visual appeal and bursts of fruit flavor.
