Print

Creamy No-Bake Lavender Lemon Cheesecake Bars

no-bake lavender lemon cheesecake bars - featured image

These creamy no-bake lavender lemon cheesecake bars combine floral and citrus flavors for a light, refreshing summer dessert that’s quick and easy to make without an oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons culinary lavender, finely ground or infused in milk
  • Zest of 2 lemons (freshly grated)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until evenly moistened and press firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan. Chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
  2. Infuse the lavender: Warm ¼ cup of milk gently and steep 2 tablespoons of culinary lavender for 5 minutes. Strain and let the milk cool completely.
  3. Make the filling: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add the cooled lavender-infused milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat cold heavy cream until soft peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
  5. Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, keeping the filling light and airy.
  6. Assemble: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Serve: Cut into 9 or 12 squares using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean edges. Garnish with lemon zest or lavender buds if desired.

Notes

Use culinary lavender from a trusted source to avoid bitterness. Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream for better volume. For vegan or gluten-free versions, substitute cream cheese and crust ingredients accordingly. Press crust firmly and ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, cheesecake bars, lavender, lemon, summer dessert, easy recipe, creamy, floral, citrus