Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Indulge in the delightful fusion of tangy lemon and rich cream cheese with these exquisite Lemon Cream Cheese Bars. Perfectly balanced in flavor, these bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a smooth, lemon-infused cream cheese filling. Each bite offers a burst of refreshing lemon zest, complemented by the creamy richness of the cheese.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan.

  2. 2

    Mix flour, powdered sugar, and butter until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the pan.

  3. 3

    Bake crust for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

  4. 4

    Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla; beat until creamy.

  5. 5

    Pour filling over crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.

  6. 6

    Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

  7. 7

    Dust with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and serve.