If you have a soft spot for tangy, creamy desserts that are both comforting and fresh, then this Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These bars bring together the perfect buttery crust with a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese filling that’s simply irresistible. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and zing, making them an ideal treat for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. Trust me, once you try these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars, they’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, everyday ingredients is the key to crafting these irresistible bars. Each component plays a critical role—whether it’s building the crumbly base or creating the velvety, tangy filling that makes this dish truly shine.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender structure for the buttery crust.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the crust, balancing the tanginess later on.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Ensures a flaky, rich foundation with a wonderful melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Delivers creamy richness and smoothness to the lemon topping.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer perfectly without overpowering the lemon.
- 1 large egg: Binds the filling ingredients, giving it that classic cheesecake consistency.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Provides a refreshing, bright lemon flavor that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Infuses aromatic lemon oils to elevate the tartness to another level.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling for a clean cut.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A light dusting for an elegant, sweet finish.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until you get a crumbly texture, resembling coarse sand. This crust will turn delightfully flaky and buttery after baking. Press this mixture firmly and evenly at the bottom of the pan. Bake it for 15 minutes to create a golden base that sets the stage beautifully for the filling.
Step 2: Make the creamy lemon filling
While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is smooth and silky. Add the egg, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and flour. Keep mixing until all ingredients blend into a luscious, creamy batter. This filling is the heart of the Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe, filling each bar with bright, tangy flavor and satisfying richness.
Step 3: Assemble and bake the bars
Once the crust comes out of the oven, pour the cream cheese lemon mixture evenly over the warm base. Spread it gently to ensure an even layer that will bake perfectly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set but still slightly jiggly, locking in that perfect creamy texture without overcooking.
Step 4: Cool and chill
Cooling is key to getting those clean, neat slices. Let the bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Then, pop them into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up fully. This chilling phase not only helps the flavors meld but also makes slicing a breeze. Before serving, optionally dust the top with powdered sugar for a pretty, sweet finish.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest way to decorate these bars is with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar, adding a snowy touch right before serving. For an extra pop of color and flavor, try garnishing with thin lemon slices or a little fresh mint—the vibrant yellow and green combo looks stunning and complements the citrus notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
If you’re hosting, pairing these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream takes the indulgence to another level. They also go beautifully alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad, creating a fresh and balanced dessert plate anytime you serve the Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve them on fancy platters, letting guests grab easily. You can even place individual bars in pretty cupcake liners for an elegant touch. Another fun idea is to layer crumbs, the lemon cream cheese filling, and fresh berries in small glass jars for a deconstructed dessert twist that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They hold up well for about 3 to 4 days, ensuring you can enjoy their creamy citrus goodness even days after baking without losing any flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bars in advance, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, allow the thawed bars to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the cream cheese layer to separate or become overly soft.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
You absolutely can, and your bars will still be tasty. However, fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor and fresh zest that really elevates the Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe to another level.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend to keep the texture just right. Just be mindful that some gluten-free flours can change the crumb slightly, but the lemon cream cheese filling will remain delicious.
What type of cream cheese is best to use?
Full-fat cream cheese is best because it gives the richest, creamiest texture and the best flavor for your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe. Make sure it is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on cream cheese and butter, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter substitutes. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor might be different, but still a tasty treat.
How do I get clean slices when cutting the bars?
For perfectly neat bars, chill them thoroughly in the fridge after baking and use a sharp knife. Running the knife under hot water and wiping it dry before each cut also helps create clean edges without messy crumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is one of those feel-good desserts that feels as special as it tastes, yet simple enough to whip up any day. Bright, creamy, and with just the right touch of sweetness, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you’re going to love the way they brighten your dessert table and put smiles on everyone’s faces.
Print
Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars combine a buttery crumble crust with a smooth, tangy lemon and cream cheese filling. Perfectly balanced with fresh lemon juice and zest, they offer a delightful dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Ideal for gatherings or a simple sweet treat, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make crust: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake crust: Bake the crust for 15 minutes to set it and develop a light golden color, then remove it from the oven to cool slightly.
- Prepare filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Beat well until fully combined and creamy in texture.
- Add filling to crust: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the warm crust and spread it to cover the entire surface.
- Bake bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Let the bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up before slicing.
- Serve: Optionally dust the top with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation before slicing into 9 bars and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
- Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best taste, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
