Description
Zesty cream cheese lemon bars highlight summer’s citrus charm with a creamy, tangy dessert that balances sweet and tart flavors. Guests will savor each refreshing bite of this elegant treat perfect for picnics or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Finishing Ingredient:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Combine flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl, working the ingredients until they form a crumbly texture.
- Press the crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even base layer.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until it develops a light golden color.
- While the crust bakes, create the filling by beating cream cheese and granulated sugar until achieving a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour into the cream cheese mixture, stirring until thoroughly blended.
- Once the crust is lightly golden, remove from oven and immediately pour the cream cheese mixture over the top, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching until the filling sets and becomes slightly firm.
- Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
- Before serving, generously dust the top with powdered sugar, creating a delicate, sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother crust texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most vibrant citrus flavor in the bars.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 175 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg