Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful blend of tangy lemon and creamy richness, all nestled in a buttery crust. Perfect for dessert or a sweet treat at any gathering!
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 electric mixer (or whisk)
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour Used for both the crust and the filling.
- ½ cup granulated sugar Used in the crust.
- ½ cup unsalted butter Softened.
- ¼ teaspoon salt Used in the crust.
- 8 oz cream cheese Softened.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Used in the filling.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice About 4 lemons.
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour Used in the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, ¼ cup of flour, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Pour the lemon cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the filling has set and is slightly golden on the edges.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
These bars are best stored in the refrigerator and will keep for about a week.