Mediterranean Baked Yogurt Cheesecake Bars

Mediterranean Baked Yogurt Cheesecake Bars

 Description

These soft, creamy cheesecake bars have a lightly golden crust and a smooth, custard-like filling. Made with strained yogurt (Greek-style) and simple ingredients, this dessert is lighter than traditional cheesecake yet still indulgent. It’s subtly sweet, perfectly balanced, and very popular in Mediterranean home baking.

 Ingredients

For the crust:

• 2 cups crushed biscuits (digestive or tea biscuits)
• ½ cup melted butter or olive oil
• 1–2 tbsp honey (optional, for light sweetness)

For the filling:

• 2 cups thick Greek yogurt (or strained plain yogurt)
• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup honey or natural sweetener
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (helps set the filling)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, Mediterranean touch)

 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Line a square baking pan.
2. Prepare crust:
   Mix crushed biscuits with melted butter and honey.
   Press firmly into the base of the pan.
   Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
3. Make filling:
   In a bowl, whisk yogurt and cream cheese until smooth.
   Add eggs one at a time.
   Mix in honey, vanilla, cornstarch, and lemon zest.
4. Assemble:
   Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 35–45 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in center.
6. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours.
7. Slice into squares like in the image and serve chilled.

 Serving Ideas

• Drizzle with honey and crushed pistachios
• Add fresh berries or figs
• Serve with a cup of mint tea 

 Tips

• Use full-fat yogurt for best creamy texture
• Don’t overbake—center should stay slightly soft
• Chill well before cutting for clean slices

Q & A

Q: Can I make this without cream cheese?
Yes! Replace with more thick yogurt for a lighter, more traditional Mediterranean version (it will be slightly less rich).

Q: Is this very sweet?
No—it’s mildly sweet. You can adjust honey to taste.

Q: Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes—use a natural sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol.

Q: Why is my cheesecake not firm?
It may need more chilling time or slightly longer baking.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes—freeze in slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge before serving.