• Preheat the oven to 350℉. Spray an 8x8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

  ^{*If using parchment paper, I like to first spray the baking dish and then press the parchment paper into it. The cooking spray helps the parchment paper adhere and stay stuck on the pan.} 

Make Graham Cracker Crust

• In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined and the cracker crumbs are evenly coated in butter.

  Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup, or small cup, to pack the crust firmly into an even layer. 
  1½ cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the lemon cheesecake filling. 

Make Lemon Cheesecake

• In a large bowl using an electric hand mixer, or use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth, creamy, and fluffy. About 2 minutes of mixing. 
  2 bars (8 oz each) full-fat cream cheese, 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each egg just until combined.
  2 large eggs
• Add in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat just until combined. 
  zest of 1 large lemon, 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pour the lemon cheesecake mixture into the baking dish over the crust and spread it out evenly. 
• Bake for 25-30 minutes. The edges should be set while the center is somewhat set but still slightly jiggly.
• Let the cheesecake bars cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight - 12 hours) until set.

  ^{* I like to refrigerate the bars for at least 6-8 hours before serving. I think the texture gets better and the flavor gets better with the longer fridge time.}
• Serve the lemon cheesecake bars chilled. Top with whipped cream and a lemon wedge if wanted.