Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a creamy filling on a buttery crust, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness with zesty lemon flavor.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar and mix until well blended.
- Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture and mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden, then let it cool slightly.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until creamy and combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust evenly.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the center is set.
- Allow to cool completely in the dish and then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
- Once chilled, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Store in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for longer storage. These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.