Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a luscious combination of buttery shortbread crust and creamy lemon filling, finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or whenever you crave a bright citrus treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Buttery & Tangy: A crisp shortbread crust pairs perfectly with a creamy lemon filling.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a foolproof dessert.
  • Perfectly Balanced: Not too sweet, not too tart—just the right amount of lemony goodness.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping ahead and chilling overnight.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Store for up to 3 months and enjoy anytime!

Recipe Details

  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: ~3 hours

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional: ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)

For Garnish:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Lemon zest curls or slices (optional, for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine butter, granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
  • Mix using a pastry cutter, fork, or hands until the dough forms a crumbly texture.
  • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
  • Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
  • If using, mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
  • Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
  • Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Chill & Cut

  • Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours.
  • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
  • Cut into squares or rectangles.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Optionally, top with lemon zest curls or slices for decoration.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice.
  • Make Ahead: These bars taste even better the next day—chill overnight for the best texture.
  • Freezing Option: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Fun Add-Ins: Mix ¼ cup poppy seeds or shredded coconut into the filling for a unique twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Bar, Approximate)

  • Calories: ~220
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~28g
  • Fat: ~12g

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a citrus craving, they’re sure to be a hit!

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