Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars offer the ideal combination of rich cream cheese and zesty lemon. The graham cracker crust adds a nice crunch, while the creamy filling is smooth and tangy with the perfect amount of sweetness. They’re simple to make, yet impressive to serve, and are guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who loves a good citrus dessert. Plus, they’re easily customizable, and you can adjust the level of sweetness or lemon to your liking!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Crust:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.

2. Press the Crust:

   • Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan (or similar-sized pan). Use the back of a spoon to pack the crust down firmly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

For the Filling:

3. Mix the Cream Cheese:

   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

4. Add the Sugar and Eggs:

   • Add the sugar and continue mixing until fully combined. Then, beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next.

5. Add the Lemon:

   • Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue mixing until smooth and fully combined.

6. Pour the Filling:

   • Pour the lemon cream cheese filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth it out with a spatula.

Bake the Bars:

7. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges. The center should be firm but may have a slight jiggle when shaken.

8. Cool:

   • Let the bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until they are fully chilled and set.

To Serve:

9. Cut and Serve:

   • Once chilled, cut into squares or bars. Serve chilled, and garnish with extra lemon zest or a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on size.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Baking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling and chilling time)

Variations

• Topping Ideas: You can top these bars with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of lemon glaze for extra flavor and decoration.

• Lemon-Blueberry Combo: For a fruity twist, add a handful of fresh blueberries to the filling or top the bars with a few before baking.

• Ginger Crust: For a spicier flavor, replace half of the graham cracker crumbs with crushed gingersnap cookies to make a ginger-infused crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Lemon Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs work perfectly for this recipe, and they save time. Just make sure they are the right consistency for the crust.

2. Can I use a different citrus instead of lemon?

Yes, you can substitute lemon with lime, orange, or even grapefruit juice for a unique twist on the flavor.

3. Do I need to use fresh lemon juice?

For the best flavor, fresh lemon juice and zest are recommended, but you can use bottled lemon juice if needed.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust. Just make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

5. Can I make these bars without eggs?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes like a flax egg or aquafaba (chickpea brine) for a vegan version of this recipe, though the texture might be slightly different.

6. How can I make the crust firmer?

If you want a firmer crust, increase the amount of butter or press the crumbs down more firmly before baking.

7. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

You can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or stevia, but the texture and taste may vary slightly.

8. Can I serve these bars at room temperature?

Yes, you can serve these bars at room temperature, but they’re best enjoyed chilled for the perfect creamy texture.

9. How can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the filling based on your personal preference.

10. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect balance of tangy lemon, creamy filling, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Whether you’re serving them as a refreshing summer dessert or for a special occasion, these bars are sure to impress. Simple to make, and even easier to enjoy, this dessert is a must-try for any lemon lover!

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