Classic-Swap Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars

Strained Greek yogurt brings bright tang to these classic-swap cheesecake bars. A buttery graham crust, honey, lemon zest, and fresh berries keep the creamy dessert feel with a lighter finish.

Serves 6 · 20 min prep · 35 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 248 cal
• 12g protein
• 26g carbs
• 11g fat

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 cup fresh mixed berries
• 1 pinch pinch of salt

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 325°F and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment so the paper overhangs two sides for easy lifting.
2. 2Stir the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and salt until the mixture looks like damp sand and holds together when pressed.
3. 3Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a compact crust, then chill it in the refrigerator while you make the filling.
4. 4In a large bowl beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps, scraping the bowl as needed.
5. 5Add the Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla, and lemon zest and mix on medium speed until the batter is silky and uniform.
6. 6Sprinkle in the cornstarch and beat just until incorporated, then add the eggs one at a time on low speed so the filling stays thick and does not get overly airy.
7. 7Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle.
8. 8Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the bars cool inside for 20 minutes to prevent cracking.
9. 9Transfer the pan to a wire rack and cool completely, then refrigerate at least 3 hours or overnight until firm enough to slice cleanly.
10. 10Lift the slab out with the parchment, cut into six neat bars, and top each with fresh berries just before serving so the fruit stays bright.