Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Indulge in these decadent Lemon Cream Cheese Bars, a perfect harmony of a buttery, golden shortbread base topped with a silky, tangy layer of sweetened cream cheese and fresh citrus. These bars are an elegant treat for any occasion, balancing the brightness of lemon with a rich, velvety texture. They are easy to prepare and guarantee a refreshing, zesty finish that will delight your guests. Whether served at afternoon tea or as a quick weekend dessert, these bars are the ultimate citrus-inspired snack.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Deserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the flour and half of the butter until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust.
Bake the base for 15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
In a separate bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth.
Whisk in the fresh lemon juice and zest until fully incorporated.
Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
Bake the bars for an additional 15 minutes or until the center is set.
Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps in the filling. Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor profile, as bottled juice lacks the aromatic oils found in the fresh zest. Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Find it online: https://flavoornote.com/lemon-cream-cheese-bars/