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Lemon Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars with Toasted Meringue Topping
🍋 A lighter, tangy twist on classic cheesecake—creamy, citrusy, and crowned with fluffy toasted meringue!
📝 Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
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¼ cup melted butter
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1 tbsp sugar
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Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess)
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¾ cup sugar
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 tbsp lemon zest
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp cornstarch (for stability)
For the Meringue Topping:
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3 egg whites, room temperature
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½ cup sugar
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¼ tsp cream of tartar (or lemon juice)
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½ tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Crust:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8″ pan with parchment paper.
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Mix crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Press firmly into the pan.
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Bake for 10 mins, then cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling:
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Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add yogurt, eggs, lemon juice/zest, vanilla, and cornstarch. Mix until just combined (don’t overbeat!).
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Pour over crust. Bake 30-35 mins until edges set but center slightly jiggles. Cool to room temp, then refrigerate 4+ hours (or overnight).
3. Toast the Meringue:
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Whip egg whites and cream of tartar to soft peaks. Gradually add sugar until stiff, glossy peaks form. Fold in vanilla.
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Spread over chilled cheesecake. Torch or broil 1-2 mins until golden (watch closely!).
💡 Pro Tips:
✅ Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese + yogurt (texture will be less rich).
✅ No Torch? Broil meringue 6″ from heat for 60 sec—but don’t walk away!
✅ Make Ahead: Bake cheesecake 1-2 days early; add meringue before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
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Garnish with blueberries, mint, or lemon slices.
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Pair with raspberry coulis for extra tang!
Why You’ll Love It:
✨ Silky-smooth texture with a bright lemon kick.
✨ Healthier than traditional cheesecake (thanks to Greek yogurt!).
✨ Meringue adds drama without heavy frosting.
Perfect for spring brunches, Easter, or anytime you crave sunshine in dessert form! 🌞
Want a no-bake version? Swap the filling for a gelatin-set yogurt mix! 😊
