Lemon Cream Cheese Bars - Tasteful Zone

There’s something magical about the combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheese. It’s a pairing that never fails to brighten my day, and these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are no exception. They’re the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy, with a buttery crust that ties everything together. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just craving a refreshing treat, these bars are sure to impress.

I’ve always been drawn to recipes that are simple yet elegant, and this one fits the bill perfectly. The process is straightforward, but the result feels indulgent and sophisticated. The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the cream cheese, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Butter: The foundation of the crust, butter adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. Make sure it’s unsalted so you can control the salt level in the recipe.

Graham cracker crumbs: These provide the base for the crust, offering a slightly sweet and crunchy texture. You can buy pre-crushed crumbs or crush whole graham crackers yourself.

Sugar: A touch of sugar sweetens the crust and balances the tartness of the lemon. Granulated sugar works best for this recipe.

Cream cheese: The star of the filling, cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy layer that pairs beautifully with the lemon. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to achieving that bright, zesty flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better.

Lemon zest: This adds an extra layer of lemon flavor and a pop of citrus aroma. Be sure to zest your lemons before juicing them.

Eggs: Eggs help set the filling, giving it a smooth and custard-like texture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for even mixing.

Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a subtle warmth to the bars.

Powdered sugar: Used for dusting the finished bars, powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finishing touch.

Ingredients List

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and 1/4 cup of sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking to ensure a creamy texture.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, dust the bars with powdered sugar and cut them into squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for Making this Recipe

Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth and even filling.
Don’t overbake: The center should still jiggle slightly when you take the bars out of the oven.
Zest before juicing: It’s much easier to zest a whole lemon than one that’s already been juiced.
Line your pan: For easy removal, line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
Experiment with toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for extra flair.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its bright flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to check for any added preservatives.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste better after chilling overnight, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of crust?
Sure! A shortbread or vanilla wafer crust would work well as an alternative to graham crackers.

Enjoy making and savoring these delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Bars! They’re a true crowd-pleaser and a testament to the magic of simple, flavorful ingredients.