Description
A delightful dessert featuring creamy cheesecake with zesty lemon flavor and a unique crunch from poppy seeds, perfect for any festive occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 225 grams (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 150 grams (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150 grams (1 1/2 cups) graham cracker crumbs
- 75 grams (1/3 cup) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add the granulated sugar.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add lemon juice, lemon zest, poppy seeds, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Lift the bars out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve chilled.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- For freezing, wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Bars, Dessert, Cheesecake, Lemon Dessert