Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a buttery, tangy, and creamy dessert that melts in your mouth! With a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious lemon cream cheese filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart. A refreshing treat for spring, summer, or anytime you need a little sunshine!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- Zest and juice from 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press 2/3 of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Reserve the remaining 1/3 for the topping.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, egg, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the baked crust.
3. Assemble & Bake:
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a perfect finishing touch!
- Enjoy chilled or at room temperature
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract to the filling.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for later!
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: american