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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe: Brighten Your Day Today

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe captures sunshine in every bite with a creamy lemon filling on a buttery crust.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs Substitute with gluten-free crumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Melted; use margarine for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Brown sugar can add a caramel flavor.
For the Filling
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Opt for full-fat or vegan cream cheese.
  • 2 large Eggs Replace with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract can be used for flavor variation.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Zest Preferably fresh zest.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice Fresh juice is best, but bottled is acceptable.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Opt for kosher salt for a different flavor.
Optional Topping
  • 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar Use for dusting on top for presentation.

Equipment

  • 9×9-inch baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • electric mixer
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Press into the prepared pan and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt to the cream cheese. Mix until fully combined.
  5. Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the filling is set but has a slight jiggle in the center.
  7. Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  8. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice into squares, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients like lemon juice and cream cheese for the best flavor. Avoid overmixing the filling to prevent cracks and ensure a smooth texture.

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