Why You’ll Love Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

These Lemon Cream Cheese bars combine the best of both worlds: the tartness of fresh lemon and the creamy richness of cream cheese. The buttery crust holds everything together, creating a satisfying contrast in textures. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family get-together, or just for a sweet treat, these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars will always leave people wanting more. They’re simple to prepare, incredibly delicious, and perfect for those who love citrus desserts.

Ingredients

1 package of cream cheese (8 oz)
1/4 cup of granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
1/4 cup of butter (melted)
2 tablespoons of lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Zest of one lemon
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the flour, melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For best results, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Once chilled, cut into bars and serve!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 bars
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

Berry Topping: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Graham Cracker Crust: Replace the regular crust with a graham cracker crust for a bit of crunch.
Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze on top for added sweetness and a glossy finish.
Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-sugar version of these bars.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the lemon cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, but you can microwave individual pieces for a few seconds if you prefer them slightly warmed. However, keep in mind that they taste best when kept cool.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different citrus fruit in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lemon with lime, orange, or even grapefruit for a different citrus twist.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Bars?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are done when the center is set and the edges are golden. You can test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

5. Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, reduced-fat cream cheese can be used, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

6. How long should I chill the bars?

For the best texture and flavor, chill the bars for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the filling to set properly.

7. Can I add a crust to the bars?

Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust, shortbread crust, or any other crust you prefer.

8. What’s the best way to cut the bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for clean edges.

9. Can I add extra lemon zest to make them more citrusy?

Yes, you can add more lemon zest if you love a stronger lemon flavor.

10. What can I serve with Lemon Cream Cheese Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or a fresh fruit salad for a light dessert spread.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet. Their easy preparation and delicious results make them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just indulging in a homemade treat, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

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These tangy and creamy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars combine a delicious lemony filling with a smooth cream cheese base, all atop a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for spring gatherings, picnics, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the vanilla extract. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
Make the filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and continue to beat until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and flour until smooth.
Assemble and bake:
Pour the lemon cream cheese filling over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly and return the pan to the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden.
Cool and serve:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
For an extra lemony kick, you can add a bit more zest or juice.
These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.