Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

 Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

**Ingredients:**

Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer:
– 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

#### Lemon Topping:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/4 cups water
– 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 4 large egg yolks, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

#### Garnish:
– Fresh raspberries
– Fresh mint leaves
– Powdered sugar for dusting
– Lime slices

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
– Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:**
– In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
– Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.
– Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow to cool.

3. **Prepare the Lemon Topping:**
– In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
– Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
– Gradually stir a small amount of the hot lemon mixture into the beaten egg yolks to temper them. Return the egg mixture to the saucepan.
– Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
– Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
– Pour the lemon topping over the cooled cheesecake layer and spread evenly.

4. **Chill and Serve:**
– Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
– Just before serving, garnish with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, lime slices, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars!