Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake Bars

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Introduction

Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the unique citrusy flavor of lemon myrtle. Originating in Australia, lemon myrtle has gained popularity worldwide for its refreshing taste and aromatic properties. These bars are commonly prepared as an elegant dessert for gatherings, a sweet treat to enjoy at home, or a unique addition to any pastry selection. The bright, uplifting flavor of lemon myrtle perfectly complements the rich, smooth texture of classic cheesecake, making it a memorable and satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon myrtle powder (can be found online or in specialty spice stores; substitute with lemon zest for a milder flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Possible Substitutions: For a gluten-free crust, use gluten-free graham crackers. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and sour cream. If lemon myrtle powder is unavailable, finely grated lemon zest (about 2 lemons) can be used, though the flavor will be less intense.

Preparation Steps

Begin by preparing the crust. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift the bars out later. For a more compact crust, use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before starting the filling to prevent lumps. Allow the ingredients to come to room temperature for a smoother, more uniform batter.

Cooking Instructions

Making the Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake Bars:

1. Preheat oven to 325F (160C).
2. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overbeat at this stage, as it can incorporate too much air and cause the cheesecake to crack.
4. Stir in sour cream, lemon myrtle powder (or zest), and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly. The edges should be set.
7. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting into bars.

Cooking Techniques: Baking at a lower temperature and cooling slowly in the oven help prevent cracking. The use of a water bath (placing the baking pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water) is optional but can provide even more consistent results and a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake Bars can be served chilled, as is, or with a variety of accompaniments. Consider a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, provide a vibrant contrast to the rich cheesecake. A drizzle of lemon curd or a sprinkling of extra lemon myrtle powder (or zest) can enhance the citrusy flavor. For plating, consider arranging the bars on a platter with fresh mint sprigs for visual appeal.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Useful Tips: To ensure a smooth cheesecake filling, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs. Overmixing can introduce air, leading to cracks during baking. For easy removal, line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. This allows you to lift the entire cheesecake out of the pan before cutting. Common Mistakes: One common mistake is baking the cheesecake at too high a temperature, which can cause it to brown too quickly and crack. Another is not allowing the cream cheese to fully soften, resulting in a lumpy batter. Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations that lead to cracking. Finally, ensure the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled before cutting into bars for cleaner slices.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning to prepare Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake Bars opens the door to a world of delightful flavors and textures. The unique combination of the tangy lemon myrtle and creamy cheesecake offers a refreshing and sophisticated dessert option. Its cultural significance and adaptability make it a perfect addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress. Embrace the joy of baking and experiment with different variations to create your own signature dessert. Try these Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake Bars at home and discover even more exciting cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.