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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, tangy cream cheese filling infused with fresh lemon for a refreshing and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and evenly coated.
  2. Press the Crust: Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Pack it down firmly using the back of a spoon. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and mix until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Add the Lemon: Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue mixing until smooth.
  5. Pour the Filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth out with a spatula.
  6. Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until set and slightly golden around the edges. The center should be firm with a slight jiggle.
  7. Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  8. Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut into squares or bars and serve. Garnish with extra lemon zest or powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

For firmer crust, press the crumbs down more firmly before baking or add a bit more butter.These bars can be topped with whipped cream or fresh berries for extra flair.For a different twist, consider a ginger crust by adding crushed gingersnap cookies to the graham cracker mix.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/lemon-cream-cheese-bars/