Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://islawhite.com/lemon-cream-cheese-bars-recipe/
