Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that seamlessly blends the indulgence of cheesecake with the refreshing zest of lemons. This Weight Watchers-friendly recipe offers a guilt-free option without compromising on flavor.
Crust: A Foundation of Flavor
Begin with the crust, a harmonious mixture of reduced-fat graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and a touch of sugar substitute. This foundation creates a crunchy yet slightly sweet base, setting the stage for the creamy layers above.
Cheesecake Layer: Creaminess Redefined
The heart of these bars lies in the velvety cheesecake layer. Two blocks of reduced-fat cream cheese are whipped to perfection with sugar substitute, creating a luscious texture. To enhance the richness, two large eggs, a quarter-cup of plain non-fat Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and the bright essence of lemon zest and juice are masterfully incorporated. The result is a heavenly blend that satisfies both the sweet tooth and the desire for citrusy freshness.
Baking Brilliance: A Culmination of Flavors
Bake this masterpiece in a preheated oven at 325°F until the center is set, with the edges delicately browning. The aroma that fills your kitchen is a promise of the delectable experience to come. Once out of the oven, let the bars cool in the baking dish, and then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This patience rewards you with a firm yet velvety texture that elevates the entire dessert.
Topping Touch: Whipped Perfection
The crowning glory of these bars is a generous layer of fat-free whipped topping. This addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a light and airy element, balancing the richness beneath.
Presentation and Enjoyment: A Feast for the Senses
Gently lift the chilled bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang, and cut into squares. The result is a visual spectacle, a medley of textures and flavors ready to delight your taste buds. Share these Lemon Cheesecake Bars with friends and family, or savor them as a personal indulgence during moments of blissful self-care.
Conclusion: A SmartPoints Success
In crafting these Weight Watchers Lemon Cheesecake Bars, we’ve embraced the principles of mindful indulgence. The recipe allows for the enjoyment of a classic dessert without compromising on the goals of a balanced lifestyle. Each bite is a testament to the artistry of creating a treat that is both delicious and mindful of dietary choices.
Weight Watchers Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (reduce fat if available)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sugar substitute
For the cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup sugar substitute
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
For the topping:
- 1 cup fat-free whipped topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute for the crust. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar substitute until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the center is set. The edges may slightly brown.
- Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the baking dish, then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.
- Once chilled, spread the fat-free whipped topping over the cheesecake layer.
- Lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
