Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 package (16 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
For the Filling:
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
½ teaspoon lemon zest
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Crust: Unroll half of the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the baking dish, sealing any seams. Sprinkle with ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ⅓ cup sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
Top with Dough: Unroll the remaining crescent roll dough and gently lay it over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
Add the Topping: Brush the top with melted butter, then sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sugar and ½ teaspoon of lemon zest.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing into bars.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing lemony treat!