Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert combining a zesty lemon flavor with a luscious cream cheese filling. Perfect for a summer treat or any occasion, they offer a refreshing taste with a creamy texture.
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking pan
- 1 mixing bowls
- 1 electric mixer or whisk
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter Softened
- 8 oz cream cheese Softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 lemon zest Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- to taste powdered sugar For dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press this crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Once the crust is done baking, pour the lemon cream cheese filling over the hot crust and spread it out evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the filling is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Feel free to customize the topping by adding whipped cream or fresh berries for extra flavor.