Limoncello Cheesecake Bars (Printable Version)

Zesty limoncello cheesecake layered on a crisp graham cracker crust for a refreshing dessert experience.

# What You'll Need:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - ¼ cup granulated sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
04 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Limoncello Cheesecake Filling

05 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
06 - ⅔ cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - ¼ cup limoncello liqueur
09 - ¼ cup sour cream
10 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Zest of 2 lemons
13 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
14 - Pinch of salt

→ Garnish

15 - Powdered sugar for dusting
16 - Lemon zest or candied lemon slices

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on sides for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and lemon zest. Mix until crumbs are evenly moistened.
03 - Press mixture firmly into the bottom of prepared pan to form even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy, approximately 2 minutes.
05 - Add sugar and beat until well incorporated. Mix in eggs one at a time, scraping bowl after each addition.
06 - Add limoncello, sour cream, lemon juice, vanilla extract, lemon zest, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined and smooth without overmixing.
07 - Pour cheesecake filling over pre-baked crust and smooth top with spatula. Bake for 35 to 38 minutes until center is just set and edges are slightly puffed.
08 - Remove from oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, until fully chilled and set.
09 - Using parchment overhang, lift bars from pan. Cut into 16 squares. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon zest or candied lemon slices if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright limoncello flavor creates an authentic Italian taste experience
  • Graham cracker crust adds buttery texture and complementary sweetness
  • Make-ahead friendly—perfect for entertaining and meal prep
  • Cleaner to serve than traditional round cheesecakes
  • Medium difficulty makes it accessible for confident home bakers
02 -
  • Use quality limoncello for the best authentic Italian flavor
  • Allow full chilling time—overnight is ideal for perfect texture
  • Line the pan with parchment for easy removal and clean cuts
  • Don't overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly when done
  • Zest lemons before juicing for easier preparation
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