Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion. These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious cream cheese lemon filling that will brighten up your dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving something refreshing, these bars will be a hit with friends and family.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Filling
• How to Make Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Make the Crust
• Step 3: Prepare the Filling
• Step 4: Bake the Bars
• Step 5: Cool and Chill
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
• For a Family Gathering
• At a Potluck
• For Afternoon Tea
• As a Gift
• How to Perfect Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
• Reheating Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?
• Can I use bottled lemon juice for Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?
• How do I know when my Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are done?
• Can I add flavors to my Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?
• How do I cut my Cream Cheese Lemon Bars neatly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy cheese and zesty lemon creates a unique taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up with ease.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars cut easily into squares, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Versatile Dessert: They can be served chilled or at room temperature, fitting in perfectly with any meal.
• Time-Saving Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the process of baking Cream Cheese Lemon Bars smoother and more enjoyable. Below are the essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: This tool helps combine the crust ingredients quickly, resulting in a fine crumb texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy mixing of the crust and filling separately.
• Whisk or electric mixer: These tools ensure that your cream cheese is beaten smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes

For the Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar, plus more for topping
• 6 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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How to Make Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a food processor or blender, combine:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled

Pulse until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, you can use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers in a large bowl to mix until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, beat together:
1. 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2. 2 cups granulated sugar

Mix until smooth and creamy. Then add:
3. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4. 3/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
5. 6 large eggs
6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the cream cheese filling over the partially baked crust in your pan. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the center is set.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Cover your pan with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best results.

Step 6: Serve

Once fully chilled, lift the bars from the pan using the foil overhang. Slice them into squares and dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Lemon Bars!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a picnic, a family gathering, or just a cozy night at home, these bars can be served to elevate any occasion.

For a Family Gathering

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Just before serving, sprinkle extra powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.
• Serve with Fresh Berries: Pairing with strawberries or blueberries adds a refreshing contrast to the tangy lemon bars.

At a Potluck

• Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: Smaller squares make it easy for guests to enjoy without committing to a full bar.
• Offer Lemon Zest Garnish: A little zest on top enhances the lemon flavor and adds visual appeal.

For Afternoon Tea

• Accompany with Tea or Coffee: These bars pair beautifully with herbal teas or coffee for a delightful afternoon break.
• Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream complements the richness of the cream cheese filling.

As a Gift

• Present in a Decorative Box: Wrap these bars in a pretty box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Include a Recipe Card: Sharing the recipe adds a personal touch and allows others to recreate this delicious treat.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

To ensure your Cream Cheese Lemon Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Bold Crust Preparation: Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan for even baking and texture.
• Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons for juice and zest; this enhances the flavor significantly.
• Bold Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process; if edges brown too quickly, tent with foil.
• Bold Cool Before Chilling: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for optimal texture.
• Bold Clean Cuts: Wipe your knife between cuts to achieve neat slices when serving.
• Bold Chill Overnight: For best results, chill the bars overnight before slicing, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their bright flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness with acidity.
2. Bold Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon bars.
3. Bold Citrus Sorbet: This light dessert offers an additional citrus burst that echoes the flavors of the bars.
4. Bold Minty Yogurt Dip: A yogurt dip infused with mint adds creaminess and freshness alongside your dessert.
5. Bold Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer another creamy dessert option that contrasts well with lemon.
6. Bold Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These provide a sweet contrast while adding elegance to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cream Cheese Lemon Bars can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Not chilling long enough: If you skip the chilling time, the bars won’t set properly and will be too soft. Always chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
• Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can incorporate excess air, leading to cracks during baking. Mix just until combined for a smooth filling.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking pan can lead to a messy cleanup and broken bars. Always use parchment paper or foil for easy removal.
• Using cold ingredients: If cream cheese is too cold, it won’t blend smoothly with the other ingredients. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature before mixing.
• Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups carefully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm wrapped bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it to keep moisture in while warming.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a delightful dessert combining a buttery crust with a creamy lemon filling, perfect for any occasion.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?

While fresh-squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be aware that it may not taste as fresh.

How do I know when my Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are done?

The bars are done when the center is set and slightly jiggles when moved. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Can I add flavors to my Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?

Absolutely! You can add lemon zest or even different citrus juices like lime or orange to customize your bars.

How do I cut my Cream Cheese Lemon Bars neatly?

For neat cuts, use a sharp knife, wiping it between slices. A warm knife also helps create cleaner edges!

Final Thoughts

These Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility allows you to customize them with extra citrus zest or different toppings. Perfect for gatherings or just enjoying at home, we encourage you to try this easy recipe!

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