Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Unsalted butter, cold and cubed: 1 cup (2 sticks)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, divided
- Cream cheese, full fat, softened: 16 ounces (two 8 oz blocks)
- Large eggs: 2
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup
- Lemon zest: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides. In a large bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Step 2: Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of the crumble mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumble firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake the crust for 12 minutes, then remove it from the oven.
- Step 3: While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, then beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until the filling is creamy and uniform.
- Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the partially baked crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the top of the filling.
- Step 5: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crumble topping is lightly golden brown.
- Step 6: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, about 1 hour. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before lifting the bars out by the parchment overhang and cutting them into squares.
Notes
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze individual bars wrapped securely for up to 2 months.
- If you prefer a slightly softer, more yielding texture, let the bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing and enjoying.
- Garnish these bright bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a side of fresh raspberries to enhance the lemon flavor and add color.
- For the creamiest filling texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before beating, and mix the eggs in gently just until they disappear to prevent developing air pockets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American