Ingredients
Crust
- 8 graham crackers (or 1 cup graham cracker crumbs)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 6 ounces plain Greek yogurt (room temperature)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Zest and juice of a lemon (approximately 1/4 cup juice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper and spray the paper as well to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: Place graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until they become fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse again until the mixture resembles coarse, sandy crumbs.
- Form and Bake the Crust: Transfer the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Firmly press down using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass. Bake for 6-7 minutes until lightly browned around the edges. Allow to cool while preparing the filling.
- Create Cheesecake Filling: Clean the food processor bowl and add cream cheese, Greek yogurt, eggs, sugar, lemon zest and juice, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Puree until smooth, scraping down sides as needed to fully incorporate all ingredients.
- Assemble and Bake Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly with a rubber spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the bars to fully set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars overnight and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
- You can substitute gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor.
- Leftover cheesecake bars keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat