Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars blend a buttery, crumbly crust with a smooth, tangy lemon cream cheese filling for a perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. Easy to prepare and bake, they make a delightful dessert or snack, ideal for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into cubes)
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan forming the crust layer.
- Bake the crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes until the crust is lightly golden and set. This step ensures a firm base for your bars.
- Prepare the filling: While the crust bakes, beat the softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Add 1/2 cup sugar, the egg, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat all together until the filling is creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the cream cheese filling over the warm crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula for consistent texture.
- Bake again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18–22 minutes or until the filling is set and does not jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. After cooling, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to firm up.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the bars with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into 9 bars and enjoy the luscious lemon cream cheese dessert.
Notes
- For enhanced lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 2 teaspoons.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw before serving.
