There’s something magical about the combination of creamy, tangy lemon and smooth, luscious cream cheese. Picture this: you take a bite of a lemon cream cheese bar, and your taste buds dance with joy as the zesty flavor bursts in your mouth. It’s a symphony of sweetness and tartness, with a soft, buttery crust that crumbles perfectly under your fork. Trust me; these bars are like sunshine on a plate.
Now, let me take you back to a summer picnic with friends. The sun was shining, laughter filled the air, and someone brought these delightful lemon cream cheese bars. As we devoured them, I realized that every bite not only satisfied our sweet tooth but also made those moments feel even more special. savory sweet potato casserole Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a pick-me-up during the week, these bars are sure to create delicious memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip these up in no time for any occasion.
- Their bright lemon flavor will leave your taste buds craving more after just one bite.
- The visual appeal will impress anyone who sees them sitting on your dessert table.
- These bars are versatile enough to be enjoyed at picnics, parties, or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients for lemon cream cheese bars
For more inspiration, check out this vanilla custard cream bars recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: These serve as the buttery base for your bars. Choose finely crushed crumbs for an even texture.
- Unsalted Butter: You’ll need melted butter for binding the crust together and adding richness.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness is essential to balance the tanginess of the lemon.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to achieve a smooth filling that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor; bottled juice just can’t compete!
- Eggs: They help set the filling while adding moisture and richness to the bars.
- Zest of One Lemon: Don’t skip this! Zesting brings out an intense lemon flavor that will elevate your dessert.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make lemon cream cheese bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. complement with cheesy potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until everything is well-coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Add granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, and zest. Mix until smooth and fully combined—this should be easy!
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the filling over your crust in the baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked, remove from oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with extra lemon zest if you’re feeling fancy!
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delightful lemon cream cheese bars while sharing some laughs with family or friends!
You Must Know
- These delightful lemon cream cheese bars are not just a treat for your taste buds; they make dessert time feel like a celebration.
- The zesty lemon flavor paired with the creamy texture brings a smile to everyone’s face, making them perfect for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, gather all your ingredients: cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and, of course, lemons. Preheat your oven while you mix the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Then add eggs one at a time. Finally, fold in the lemon juice and zest before pouring it into the crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute lime for lemon if you fancy a tropical twist or add fresh berries on top after baking for an added burst of flavor. A dash of vanilla extract can also enhance the sweetness beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you need to reheat them, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm without losing that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly smooth bars, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- This helps avoid lumps and creates a silky batter.
- Always zest and juice your lemons before beginning to make the process smoother and easier.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Sometimes, I whip up these lemon cream cheese bars for family gatherings, and they vanish faster than my phone battery on a road trip! Everyone raves about them, leaving me feeling like a dessert superstar.
FAQs :
What are lemon cream cheese bars?
Lemon cream cheese bars are delightful dessert treats made with a creamy lemon-flavored filling on a buttery crust. The base typically consists of flour, sugar, and butter, while the topping features cream cheese, lemon juice, and zest for an invigorating flavor. try these carrot cake cookies These bars are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a refreshing citrus taste that complements any occasion.
How do I store lemon cream cheese bars?
To store lemon cream cheese bars, first allow them to cool completely after baking. Cover them with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain their flavor for about three months when frozen.
Can I make lemon cream cheese bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make lemon cream cheese bars ahead of time! In fact, preparing them a day before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply bake the bars, let them cool, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This makes them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings since you can focus on other preparations while your dessert is ready and waiting.
What variations can I try with lemon cream cheese bars?
You can experiment with various flavors and ingredients when making lemon cream cheese bars. For instance, add fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. Alternatively, mix in some coconut flakes for added texture or switch out the lemon juice for lime juice if you prefer a different citrus flavor. These variations will keep your dessert interesting while still maintaining that creamy goodness.
Conclusion for lemon cream cheese bars :
Lemon cream cheese bars are a delightful treat that combines tangy citrus with creamy sweetness. With their buttery crust and smooth filling, they make an ideal dessert for any occasion. Storing these delicious bars is simple; just remember to refrigerate or freeze accordingly. indulge in brownie cheesecake Feel free to customize the recipe with different flavors to suit your taste preferences! Enjoy these refreshing treats at your next gathering or as a sweet indulgence at home. For more inspiration, check out this pecan cheesecake bars recipe.
Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lemon cream cheese bars are a delightful dessert that combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the creamy richness of cream cheese. Nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars offer a refreshing treat perfect for summer picnics or family gatherings. Each bite is a balance of sweet and tart, making them an irresistible indulgence that will brighten any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; press firmly into the bottom of the baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and zest; mix until fully combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool at room temperature for one hour, then refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: For an extra twist, add fresh berries on top after baking or substitute lime juice for lemon juice to create a tropical flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
