Description
Yuzu cheesecake bars are a modern variation of traditional cheesecake, incorporating yuzu, a citrus fruit commonly used in Japanese cooking. The tangy, aromatic yuzu adds a unique flavor that complements the creamy, rich texture of the cheesecake filling. These bars are an excellent option for those who want a cheesecake dessert but with a refreshing citrus twist. The dessert is baked in a square pan, making it easy to slice into neat, shareable pieces, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Brownie base:
- 115g unsalted butter
- 120g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 150g granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ¼ tsp salt
- 60g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
Tahini swirl:
- 75g tahini
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- ¼ tsp cardamom (optional for extra spice)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prep the pan
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt chocolate & butter
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and chocolate together.
- Stir until smooth, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix wet ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla, cardamom, and salt until light and slightly thickened.
- Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture.
4. Add dry ingredients
- Sift in flour and cocoa powder. Fold gently until just combined.
5. Make tahini swirl
- In a small bowl, mix tahini, maple syrup, powdered sugar, cardamom, and salt until smooth.
6. Assemble
- Pour brownie batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Dollop spoonfuls of tahini mixture over the top.
- Use a skewer or knife to swirl gently for a marbled effect.
7. Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly fudgy.
- A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
8. Cool & slice
- Let cool in pan for 20 minutes, then lift out and cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For an extra touch, top these bars with a thin layer of yuzu curd or a sprinkle of candied citrus peel. They also pair wonderfully with green tea for a refreshing balance
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Fusion (Japanese-inspired)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Yuzu cheesecake, Yuzu dessert bars, Yuzu cream cheese bars