Oh, my sweet sunshine lovers — I am beyond excited to share this one with you today! These Lemon Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars with Toasted Meringue Topping are like a sunny vacation for your taste buds: creamy, zesty, light, and topped with the fluffiest, most indulgent cloud of meringue you’ve ever sunk a fork into. If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s refreshing yet decadent, this one’s for you.

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Overview of Recipe Content

This dessert is a spring-summer showstopper — perfect for Easter, Mother’s Day, bridal showers, or just because you deserve something special.

Why you’ll love it:

Lightened-up with Greek yogurt for creaminess and tang.
Naturally sweetened crust with oats and honey.
A golden, toasty meringue topping that will make your guests think you went to pastry school.
Can be made ahead of time (yes, really!).

What it tastes like:
Creamy lemon cheesecake meets pillowy marshmallow topping, all on a slightly chewy, wholesome oat base.

Health perks:

Lower in fat than traditional cheesecake.
High in protein thanks to Greek yogurt.
Naturally sweetened crust.

Ingredients:

Lemon Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars with Toasted Meringue Topping

Base:

1 cup oats
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

Filling:

½ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon honey

Meringue:

2 large egg whites
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools Needed:

8×8 baking dish
Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Spatula
Zester
Piping bag (optional)

Suggested substitutions:

Swap coconut oil with melted butter for a richer base.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a tropical twist.
Add crushed graham crackers to the base for extra crunch.

How to Make Lemon Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars with Toasted Meringue Topping

Prep your base — Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix oats, honey, and melted coconut oil until well coated. Press into an 8×8 dish lined with parchment. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Make the filling — In another bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey until smooth. Pour over baked base. Bake for another 15–18 minutes until set. Let cool completely.
Whip the meringue — In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and beat until stiff glossy peaks form. Mix in vanilla extract.
Top & toast — Spread or pipe meringue over cooled bars. Use a kitchen torch to toast to golden perfection (or broil briefly, watching carefully!).
Chill & serve — Refrigerate at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.

What to Serve with Lemon Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars

These bars pair beautifully with:

Fresh berries for a pop of color.
A glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade.
For a decadent brunch spread, serve alongside my Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, Easy Homemade Waffles, Strawberry Shortcake Cups, Mini Lemon Tarts, and Blueberry Muffin Loaf.

Tips for Making It Perfect

Always use room-temperature egg whites for best meringue volume.
Don’t overbake the filling — it should still have a slight jiggle in the center.
Use a torch for more control when toasting meringue.
Make the base extra crispy by toasting the oats before mixing.

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze without meringue topping for up to 2 months. Add topping before serving.
Reheat: Not needed — these are served chilled.

General Information

Lemon desserts have been a staple in American kitchens for decades — brightening holiday tables and adding sunshine to summer gatherings. This Greek yogurt version is a nod to modern health-conscious baking while keeping that classic cheesecake soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought meringue?
Yes, but freshly whipped is so much better in texture and flavor.

2. Can I use a different yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt’s thickness is ideal.

3. Can I skip the oats?
Yes, replace with crushed graham crackers or almond flour.

Conclusion

These Lemon Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars with Toasted Meringue Topping bring sunshine to any table. Creamy, tangy, sweet, and lightly toasted — they’re dessert happiness in every bite. If you love lemon, try my Mini Lemon Tarts and Blueberry Muffin Loaf next!