Lemon Cream Bars
Creamy lemon bars with a buttery crumb crust and a smooth, tangy filling that feels bright, comforting, and perfectly balanced.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and ¼ cup of the sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the remaining sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
- Pour the lemon cream mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for about 35 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
- Remove from the oven, let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
- For the best texture, use room temperature cream cheese.
- Chilling overnight gives cleaner slices and deeper flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Find it online: https://www.cookfulcorner.com/lemon-cream-bars/