Description
Luxurious lemon marbled cheesecake bars swirl classic New York charm with zesty Mediterranean brightness. Rich cream cheese meets tangy lemon in a dessert that promises silky smooth indulgence you’ll savor with each decadent bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (450 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
Sweeteners and Dairy:
- ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) sour cream
- ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, melted
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
Instructions
- Prepare the foundation by crafting a graham cracker base. Blend the crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing the mixture firmly into a lined baking pan. Create a uniform layer using the back of a spoon, then bake briefly until golden and set.
- Whip the cream cheese mixture to silky perfection. Incorporate eggs gradually, ensuring each addition is fully integrated. Fold in vanilla and sour cream with gentle, deliberate strokes to maintain a smooth, luxurious texture.
- Transform the cheesecake canvas by drizzling vibrant lemon curd across the surface. Use a slender implement like a toothpick to create intricate swirling patterns, blending the citrus essence into the creamy backdrop without disturbing the underlying structure.
- Position the assembled creation in a preheated oven. Bake until the edges firm up and the center retains a subtle wobble, signaling the perfect custard-like consistency. Watch carefully to prevent over-browning.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator. Let it rest and set for several hours, allowing flavors to meld and texture to stabilize.
- When ready to serve, extract the dessert using parchment paper handles. Slice into elegant portions, creating clean edges with a heated knife. Optionally embellish with a delicate sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh lemon zest for a refined presentation.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter that blends seamlessly.
- Prevent cracks by avoiding overmixing and overbaking the cheesecake, which can cause the surface to split and become dry.
- Create a water bath by placing the baking pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to promote even baking and a silky texture.
- Customize the recipe by experimenting with different citrus curds like lime or orange for unique flavor variations and colorful marbling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 276
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 185 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 79 mg