Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dessert that not only brings a burst of sunshine to your day but also a smile to everyone who tries it, then look no further than these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars! I stumbled upon this recipe during a summer get-together where the sun was shining, and the laughter was flowing—everyone clamored for the refreshingly zesty bites that made their way around the patio. I’ve been hooked ever since!
This recipe is an absolute gem. It combines the creamy goodness of cream cheese with the tart freshness of lemon, all snuggly tucked inside a delicious lemon cake crust. What I love most is how ridiculously easy it is to whip up these bars—perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen (although you will get lots of compliments!). So grab your apron and let’s get baking!
What’s in Lemon Cream Cheese Bars?
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese: Softened to perfection, this creamy delight forms the luscious filling of our bars.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Gives just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that makes everything better!
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Freshly grated from about 1 lemon, this zest packs a citrus punch and adds incredible aroma.
- 2 large eggs: These bind everything together and give the filling its lovely texture.
- 1 box (18.25 oz) lemon cake mix: This is the base of our bars, simplifying the process while ensuring a delightful lemony flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter: Melted butter adds richness to the cake crust. I usually go for unsalted as it helps control the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Perfect for dusting on top for a sweet finishing touch!
- 1/4 cup sugar: This will caramelize a bit on top and adds a heavenly crunch.
Are Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Good for You?
Well, let’s just say these bars are more about indulgence than health—but isn’t that what dessert is for? The cream cheese provides a nice dose of calcium, while lemons are packed with vitamin C, immune-boosting abilities, and other antioxidants. On the flip side, with ingredients like granulated sugar and butter, these bars aren’t exactly calorie-conscious.
However, if you want to lighten them up a bit, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or swapping half of the sugar for a sweetener of your choice. Just remember, sometimes you simply have to treat yourself, and these bars are worth every delightful calorie!
Ingredients List
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 box (18.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for topping)
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars?
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or butter—whatever you prefer!
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and eggs; mix until everything is well combined. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine the lemon cake mix with the melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Press half of this cake dough into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer. Don’t be shy about it; get that creamy goodness everywhere!
- Crumble the remaining cake dough over the cream cheese layer, trying to cover it as evenly as possible.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of sugar with the powdered sugar, and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the bars.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean—if it doesn’t, give it a few more minutes!
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Patience is key here!
A Zesty Twist on Serving Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
- These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature—a perfect treat on a warm day!
- Leftover bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you can keep them that long! I often find they vanish within 48 hours.
- For a decorative touch, garnish with additional lemon zest or even a slice of lemon before serving. Your friends will think you’re a pastry chef!
If you get a chance to whip up these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars, I can promise they will be a delightful addition to any occasion—or just a Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up! Feel free to share your baking stories or any unique twists you put on the recipe. Can’t wait to hear how they turn out!
