Description
These Cream Cheese Lemon Bars feature a buttery, tender crust topped with a smooth and tangy lemon cream cheese filling. Perfectly balanced with a dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are refreshing and delightful, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
For the Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup flour
- ¾ cups fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar, plus more for topping
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with foil or parchment paper, ensuring plenty of overhang on the sides to easily lift out the bars after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a food processor or blender, combine 2 cups flour, ½ cup sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and chilled butter cubes. Pulse until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work the ingredients together in a bowl until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This pre-baking ensures a firm base for the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with 2 cups granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add ¼ cup flour, ⅓ cup powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, 6 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the filling is smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool for about 20 minutes at room temperature. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Using the foil or parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into approximately 20 squares. Dust the tops with additional powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice, but fresh juice gives the best flavor.
- Chilling the bars for at least 4 hours is crucial for firm slices.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If desired, garnish with thin lemon slices or zest for extra lemon aroma and presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
