Lemon Cream Cheese Bars 🍋🧀
Delightfully tangy and creamy dessert bars!
📋 Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup fresh juice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
- Fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries, optional)
📝 Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
5. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
8. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
10. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
11. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes | Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 9 bars