Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Introduction

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both bright and creamy, these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are perfect! They combine the richness of cream cheese with the fresh taste of lemon, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a sunny picnic, these bars will always shine!

Why Make This Recipe

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are super easy to make and are a great way to use fresh lemons. They’re perfect for those moments when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. Plus, they are a hit with both kids and adults! You’ll love how they melt in your mouth with a tangy twist.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 package cream cheese, softened
1 egg
Fresh lemon zest and juice from one juicy lemon
Powdered sugar

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the softened cream cheese and mix until well combined.
Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool and dust with powdered sugar before cutting into bars.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain or add a little extra powdered sugar on top for a sweet touch. They make a lovely dessert after dinner or a delightful snack during the day!

How to Store Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

To keep your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are wrapped well and stored in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Tips to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them mix smoothly.
Don’t rush the baking time. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Add more lemon zest if you want an extra zesty flavor!

Variation

You can create a berry version by adding fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter before baking. This will give your bars a fruity twist that’s equally delicious!

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different, but they will still taste great.

2. How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a cup-for-cup replacement.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s a good quality one!