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Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Bars

2023-02-15 - Written by: Emma Taylor

Cheesecake Lemon Ricotta Dessert

Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Bars

A refreshing and creamy dessert that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of cheesecake.

Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Bars

Introduction

These bright and citrusy bars are a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake. With a creamy ricotta cheese filling, a tangy lemon curd topping, and a crumbly shortbread crust, these bars are perfect for springtime or any time of the year when you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Shortbread Crust

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Ricotta Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar

Lemon Curd Topping

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Prepare the shortbread crust:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
    • Add the softened butter and sugar; mix until well combined.
    • Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake the shortbread crust for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
  4. Prepare the ricotta cheesecake filling:
    • In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese and granulated sugar; mix well.
    • Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
    • Stir in confectioners' sugar.
  5. Pour the ricotta cheesecake mixture over the baked shortbread crust.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
  7. Prepare the lemon curd topping:
    • Whisk together lemon juice and granulated sugar in a small bowl.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and softened butter; mix well with the lemon mixture.
  8. Spread the lemon curd topping over the baked cheesecake bars.

Notes

  • These bars are best served chilled, so refrigerate them for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
  • You can adjust the amount of lemon juice in the lemon curd topping to your taste.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Bars!