Description
Zesty Lemon Cream Dream Bars are a luscious dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy lemon-infused cheesecake filling swirled with raspberry preserves. These bars are chilled to perfection and garnished with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and whipped cream, offering a refreshing balance of tangy and sweet flavors in every bite.
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 Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
- Fresh raspberries, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure the bars can be easily removed after baking.
- Create the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly and 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 the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture. Blend in the sour cream, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust evenly. Drop spoonfuls of raspberry preserves over the filling, then use a knife to gently swirl the preserves into the cream cheese mixture creating a marbled effect.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled bars for 45-50 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours to allow them to set completely for easier slicing and optimal flavor.
- Garnish & Serve: Before serving, garnish each bar with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and a dollop of whipped cream to add freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overbake the bars; the center should be set but still slightly jiggly to prevent cracking.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best zesty flavor.
- The raspberry preserves swirl adds both sweetness and a pretty marbled design.
- Chill the bars well for clean, firm slices.
