Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Bars

If you love the perfect balance of tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake, this easy recipe is for you!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 3 egg yolks

For Topping:

• Whipped cream
• Lemon zest (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prepare Crust:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Roll out the pie crust and press it into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
   • In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
   • Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
   • Spread over the pre-baked crust.
3. Prepare the Lemon Layer:
   • In another bowl, whisk together condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks.
   • Pour over the cheesecake layer.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set.
   • Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
   • Slice into squares, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with lemon zest.

💡 Pro Tip: For an extra golden crust, brush the edges with an egg wash before baking!