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strawberry lemon cheesecake bars

Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, tangy, and sweet dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky lemon cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry swirl.
These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion - a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings, parties, or a simple indulgence at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Bars
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Swirl

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries hulled
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool while preparing the filling.

Make the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
  • Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Prepare the Strawberry Swirl

  • In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
  • Blend the mixture until smooth, then spoon small dollops over the cheesecake filling.
  • Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the strawberry mixture into the cheesecake.

Bake and Chill

  • Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly set and no longer jiggly.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for about an hour.
  • Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing and serving.
Keyword Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars