Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
If you’re craving a light and tangy dessert, these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect treat! With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust, creamy lemon cream cheese filling, and zesty lemon flavor, these bars are a must-try. Whether for a family gathering or a special treat at home, these bars are sure to impress! Here’s how to make them.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- Zest and juice of 1 juicy lemon
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- A pinch of salt (optional, for flavor balance)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease the pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup softened butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 cups all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt (if using). Mix until smooth and dough-like.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 egg, fresh lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Add in a bit more sugar if desired (but keep it balanced with the tangy lemon flavor).
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Step 3: Bake and Finish
- Bake the bars for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and slightly golden on top.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
- Once the bars are cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars:
These lemon cream cheese bars are a perfect blend of tart and sweet, with a creamy filling and buttery crust. The zesty lemon flavor makes them refreshing, while the smooth cream cheese layer adds richness. They are the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth without being overly heavy, making them great for any occasion.
Tips for Success:
- Balance the Sweetness: The fresh lemon zest and juice add a nice tang, so if you prefer a sweeter bar, you can adjust the sugar levels to your taste.
- Chill Before Serving: These bars are even better when chilled for a few hours before serving, as they firm up and become even more refreshing.
- Top with Fresh Berries: For an extra burst of flavor and color, top with fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemons?
If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice. However, fresh lemons give the bars a much more vibrant and natural flavor.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy:
- Lemon Bars: If you love citrusy desserts, these classic lemon bars are a crowd-pleaser.
- Cream Cheese Brownies: A delicious twist on traditional brownies with a creamy filling.
- Lemon Meringue Pie: For more tangy lemon goodness in a classic pie form.
Final Thoughts:
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect combination of bright, zesty lemon and rich, creamy filling, with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. They are a simple yet elegant dessert, ideal for any gathering or just as a treat for yourself. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to shine!
