Name: Spring Lemon Cheesecake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Ingredients: Ingredients You’ll Need; For the Crust; 1½ cups finely crushed graham crackers; ⅓ cup butter (melted); ¼ cup granulated sugar; For the Lemon Cheesecake Layer; 16 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temp); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spring is doing the most—and honestly, we’re here for it. Fresh blooms, longer days, and dessert tables that deserve a little extra wow. That’s where Spring Lemon Cheesecake Bars slide in and casually steal the spotlight. Sweet, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy, these bars bring sunshine to every bite without the drama of a full cheesecake. Yes, really.

Lemon just gets spring. The bright citrus flavor feels refreshing, not heavy, making these bars ideal for anyone craving Light And Fruity Desserts that still feel indulgent. The cheesecake layer stays rich and smooth, while the lemon adds that zing that makes people go back for seconds. Or thirds. No judgment.

Hosting a holiday meal? These bars quietly check all the boxes for a standout Desert For Easter Dinner. They’re festive without being fussy and pretty enough to hold their own on any dessert table. IMO, they’re the kind of Easter Food Dessert guests remember—and ask you to send the recipe for later.

Here’s the best part: they’re shockingly simple to make. No water baths. No cracked tops. No stress. That’s why they’re a go-to Easy Dessert For Easter when time is tight but expectations are high. FYI, they also fit right into your rotation of Spring Bars Dessert Recipes and work beautifully as Desserts For Special Occasions year-round.

Think lemon is only for spring? Think again. These bars transition effortlessly into Fall Lemon Desserts, too. Chilled or room temp, casual or fancy, they’ve earned their place among Best Rated Desserts for a reason.

So if you’re brainstorming fresh Easter Dinner Dessert Ideas, this one’s a no-brainer. Simple. Bright. Crowd-pleasing. And yes—totally worth the hype. 🍋✨

Spring Lemon Cheesecake

These Spring Lemon Cheesecake Bars are creamy, bright, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor—perfect for celebrating the season. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a smooth lemon-infused cheesecake layer that’s rich yet refreshing. Easier than a traditional cheesecake, these bars bake beautifully with minimal effort and maximum payoff. Their light, tangy taste makes them ideal for Easter gatherings, spring parties, or anytime you want a dessert that feels special without being heavy. Serve them chilled with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Course: Dessert, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust
1½ cups finely crushed graham crackers
⅓ cup butter melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Lemon Cheesecake Layer
16 ounces cream cheese softened to room temp
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

1. Heat things up. Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

2. Build the crust. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.

3. Make the filling. Beat the cream cheese with sugar until silky smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each.

4. Add the flavor. Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla. Stir until everything is creamy and well blended.

5. Bake to perfection. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the edges look set and the center has a gentle wobble.

6. Chill before slicing. Let the bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Notes

Topping Ideas (Optional but Highly Recommended)

Powdered sugar dusting for a clean, classic look
Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries
Lemon curd drizzle for extra citrus punch
Whipped cream for a soft, creamy finish
White chocolate shavings for a sweet contrast

❓ FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These bars actually taste better after chilling overnight.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep them covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze lemon cheesecake bars?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Why is my center slightly jiggly?
That’s perfect! It firms up as it chills—no overbaking needed.

🍋 Final Thoughts

These lemon cheesecake bars are creamy, bright, and effortlessly elegant. They’re easy enough for a casual gathering but polished enough for holidays and special occasions. Whether you serve them plain or dressed up with toppings, they deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. Simple, fresh, and totally irresistible—this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.