Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful treat that balances tangy citrus with rich, creamy texture. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a refreshing twist on traditional bars.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (use fresh lemon for best flavor)
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with baking paper for easier removal.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir until well mixed and crumbly.
3. Step 3: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove and let cool slightly.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk.
5. Step 5: Add ½ cup sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined and smooth.
6. Step 6: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is set with a slight jiggle.
8. Step 8: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
9. Step 9: Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
• For a gluten-free crust, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crumbs or crushed almonds.
• Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like mint or basil to the filling for a unique twist.

Storage

Store the lemon cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best texture and flavor, reheat slightly or serve chilled. They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind the taste might be less vibrant.

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

The bars are done when the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Overbaking can cause cracking and dryness.

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 52 reviews

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a refreshing and creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth lemon cream cheese filling. Perfectly balanced with a tangy lemon flavor and a hint of sweetness, these bars are easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 9 servings (cut into 3x3 squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (fresh)
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (fresh)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with baking paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and crumbly.
3. Form and Bake Crust: Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the crust turns golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk. Add ½ cup granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and salt. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle.
6. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set fully before cutting into squares.
7. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving for a decorative touch and added sweetness.

Notes

• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best, brightest flavor.
• Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• The slight jiggle in the center when baked indicates perfect doneness for a creamy texture.

Keywords: lemon cream cheese bars, lemon dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy lemon bars, easy dessert recipe