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–+ servings

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Bright, tangy, and luxuriously creamy, these lemon cream cheese bars feature a lemon-infused cream cheese layer over a buttery shortbread crust. The perfect balance of citrus freshness and rich indulgence, ideal for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or when you crave an uplifting dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 bars
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour divided
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, 2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use your fingertips or the back of a measuring cup to flatten it evenly.
  • Bake the crust for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  • While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons flour. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
  • Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
  • Return to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer wobbly in the center.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for about one hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.
  • Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into 16 squares. Serve cold and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSodium: 130mgSugar: 18g
Keyword lemon bars, lemon dessert, cheesecake bars, cream cheese bars
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