1-First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with greased aluminum foil for easy removal. This step sets the stage for even baking and helps the bars come out cleanly.

2-Next, in a food processor, mix 2 cups flour and 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, then add 1 cup sliced cold butter and pulse until crumbly. Add 1 1/2 cups oats and pulse again to create the base mixture, reserving 1 1/2 cups for the topping as noted.

3-Press the remaining crumb mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes to form a solid crust. While that’s baking, beat 2 packages of cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth, then blend in 3 eggs, 1/4 cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/4 cup lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest for the filling.

4-Pour the creamy mixture over the baked crust, sprinkle the reserved crumbs on top, and press gently. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the top browns, then let it cool completely before cutting into bars. Remember to adapt for dietary needs, like using gluten-free flour, to keep it inclusive.