No-Bake Cheesecake Bars

These no-bake cheesecake bars are a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a creamy texture with a delicious graham cracker crust. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated with butter.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to help pack it down.
   1. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

   Make the Cheesecake Filling:

   1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
   2. In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
   3. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the cream cheese, beating until fully combined and smooth.
   4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

   Assemble the Cheesecake Bars:

   1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
   2. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.

   Chill the Cheesecake:

   1. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the cheesecake is firm and set.

   Prepare the Topping (Optional):

   1. If desired, mix the additional graham cracker crumbs with the powdered sugar and sprinkle evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.

   Serve:

   1. Once the cheesecake is fully set, cut into bars and serve chilled.

   Tips

   • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
   • Mixing: Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the light and airy texture.
   • Serving Suggestion: These cheesecake bars can be topped with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added flavor.

   Enjoy these delicious no-bake cheesecake bars, a creamy and delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any dessert lover!