Description
These Lemon Delight Cream Cheese Bars are a zesty, creamy treat featuring a buttery crust and a rich lemon-infused cream cheese filling—perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup. Gives structure to the buttery crust and helps hold everything together.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (softened). Creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth base.
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup for crust, 1/2 cup for filling. Adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the lemon.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz (softened). Provides that silky, tangy richness that defines this dessert.
- Eggs: 2 large. Bind the filling while adding richness and smooth texture.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 1/3 cup. Brings the zing and balances the creaminess.
- Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon. Infuses the bars with vibrant, aromatic citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting. Finishes the bars with a delicate, sweet touch.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup softened butter, and 1/2 cup sugar until crumbly. In another bowl, blend cream cheese, remaining sugar, eggs, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Press the crust mixture evenly into the lined baking pan, forming a solid base.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Cook to Perfection: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Finishing Touches: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice into bars, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy that first, luscious bite.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother blending.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing for best texture.
- Use a warm knife for cleaner cuts.
- Store in the fridge or freeze individually wrapped bars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: lemon bars, cream cheese dessert, summer treat, easy lemon dessert, lemon cheesecake bars