No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars Recipe

There’s something so wonderfully nostalgic about the tangy taste of a lemon dessert, especially when it doesn’t require any baking. These No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars are not only a showstopper but also an absolute burst of sunshine on your taste buds, making them perfect for warm, leisurely days with the family. Every bite brings together a symphony of creamy cheese, zestful lemon curd, and crunchy graham cracker crust, creating a refreshing treat perfect for any seasonal occasion. Whether you’re welcoming spring, having a summer picnic, or just seeking a moment of weekday indulgence, these bars are an effortless yet delightful creation meant to be shared and enjoyed around a bustling kitchen together.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)

Servings: 12 bars

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup lemon curd
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and the texture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 9×9-inch square baking dish to create an even layer of crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated and fluffy.
4. Add in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and uniform.
6. Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Gently swirl the lemon curd over the top of the cheesecake layer, creating a marbled effect.
8. Return the baking dish to the refrigerator and allow it to set for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm.
9. Once set, cut into bars and garnish with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of extra lemon zest if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

For a nutty twist, you can add finely chopped almonds or walnuts to the graham cracker crust mixture. If you’re short on time, a store-bought lemon curd works just as wonderfully as homemade.

Storage Instructions

Store these no-bake lemon cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re also freezer-friendly; just wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have graham crackers, digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies can be a great alternative for the crust. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream.

Pairings and Complementary Dishes

These lemon cheesecake bars pair beautifully with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a berry-infused lemonade. For a more decadent pairing, try serving them alongside a light and fluffy fruit salad.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, one delicious recipe at a time. We hope these No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars inspire you to gather your family and create unforgettable memories. We can’t wait to hear how yours turned out! Share your experiences with us, and spread the love by forwarding this recipe to friends and family. Ready for more culinary adventures? Explore our collection, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired! Happy cooking!