Lemon Cream Cheese Bars – A Perfectly Tangy, Rich
Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert made with three irresistible layers: a buttery crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a tangy lemon topping. They offer a perfect harmony of flavors—sweet, tart, and creamy—all in one bite.These bars are easy to prepare and require simple pantry ingredients, making them ideal for both casual and special occasions.Their soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture makes them a crowd favorite.They can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on preference.Perfect for summer desserts, parties, or festive treats.A refreshing alternative to heavy cakes and pastries.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 200g cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Layer:
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan.
- Mix flour, butter, and sugar to form a crumbly dough. Press into the pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour this mixture over the baked crust evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and zest.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer gently.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until set.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
- Do not overbake to maintain a soft texture.
- Let bars cool fully before slicing.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing.
- Line the pan with parchment for easy removal.
- Adjust sugar based on tartness preference.
- Chill for cleaner cuts.
- Store in refrigerator for freshness.