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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

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These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a sweet and tangy dessert with a creamy lemon cheesecake filling layered over a buttery crust. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you crave a refreshing treat!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for extra tang)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Crust:

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
  2. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Filling:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and flour. Mix until fully combined.

4. Assemble and Bake:

  1. Pour the lemon cream cheese mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
  3. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

5. Serve:

  1. Once chilled, slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Notes

  • Zest for Extra Lemon Flavor: Add more lemon zest for a bolder citrus taste.
  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance for even better flavor.