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Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars – The Best Tangy and Creamy Dessert Recipe


  • Author: Julia Hart
  • Total Time: About 2 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are the perfect blend of zesty, tangy lemon flavor and creamy, rich filling, all layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. This easy dessert is great for any occasion and will satisfy both citrus lovers and cheesecake fans alike.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For Topping:

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
  • Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in lemon juice, zest, vanilla, and flour until combined.
  • Bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until set.
  • Cool & Chill: Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
  • Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, slice, and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra tangy bars, add an additional teaspoon of lemon zest.
  • Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping the blade between cuts.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American