Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are the dessert you never knew you needed, but bake them once, and you’ll never go without them again. These bars combine a buttery crust with a creamy, tangy lemon filling that is simply irresistible. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars are sure to impress with their delightful flavor and smooth texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up with ease.
• Refreshing Flavor: The zesty lemon juice combined with rich cream cheese creates a deliciously balanced taste that’s both sweet and tangy.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, birthday celebration, or just a weekend treat.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be chilled overnight, making them great for meal prep or last-minute entertaining.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 20 servings, making it perfect for parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smoother. Here are the essentials you’ll need to create these delightful Cream Cheese Lemon Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 9×13 inch pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes quick work of blending the crust ingredients into fine crumbs.
• 9×13 inch pan: The ideal size for baking these bars evenly; ensures even cooking and easy removal.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients properly to achieve the perfect texture.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing eggs smoothly into the filling without lumps.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are the dessert you never knew you needed, but bake them once, and you’ll never go without them again. Sweet, cream cheesy, lemony, buttery, and so easy!

For the Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter (chilled and cut into small cubes)

For the Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¼ cup flour
• ¾ cups fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar (plus more for topping)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13 inch pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving overhang around the edges. This will help you lift the bars out easily later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a food processor or blender, combine:
2. 2 cups all-purpose flour
3. ½ cup granulated sugar
4. ½ teaspoon salt
5. 1 cup chilled butter (cut into small cubes)
6. Cover and pulse until fine crumbs form. You can also use a pastry cutter or fork if you prefer.
7. Press this crust mixture firmly into the prepared pan and bake for about 10 minutes while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine:
2. 8 ounces softened cream cheese
3. 2 cups granulated sugar
4. Cream together until smooth.
5. Mix in:
6. ¼ cup flour
7. ¾ cups fresh-squeezed lemon juice
8. 6 large eggs
9. 1 teaspoon vanilla
10. Ensure everything is completely incorporated before moving on.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the filling over your pre-baked crust in the pan. Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes until set.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Allow your bars to cool for about 20 minutes at room temperature before covering them. Transfer to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Serve

Once chilled, lift out using foil edges and slice into squares. Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness! Enjoy your Cream Cheese Lemon Bars!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home, here are some creative suggestions for serving these delicious bars.

Classic Serving

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Fresh Berries: Pair the bars with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for added flavor and color.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the tangy lemon flavor perfectly.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, serve with lemon sorbet to enhance the citrus taste.

On a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Dessert Tray: Include Cream Cheese Lemon Bars as part of a larger dessert platter with brownies, cookies, and fruit tarts.
• Party Favors: Cut into smaller squares and package them in cute bags for guests to take home.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: Serve with sweetened iced tea for a classic summer refreshment.
• Sparkling Water: Pair with sparkling water and a slice of lemon for a light and bubbly option.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

To achieve the best results when making Cream Cheese Lemon Bars, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your bars come out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
• Cool Gradually: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge to prevent condensation.
• Line the Pan Well: Using foil or parchment paper helps you easily lift out the bars without sticking.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours for optimal texture and flavor development.
• Slice with a Warm Knife: Dip your knife in warm water before slicing to get clean cuts without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

Serving Cream Cheese Lemon Bars can be enhanced by pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or gouda can provide a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
3. Savory Scones: Offer herb-infused scones for a delightful balance of flavors.
4. Minted Pea Salad: The bright flavors of mint and peas create an interesting pairing with lemon bars.
5. Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers indulgence alongside the citrusy dessert.
6. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a light side that complements lemon nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Cream Cheese Lemon Bars, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using cold cream cheese – Always ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This leads to a smoother filling without lumps.
• Skipping the chilling time – Don’t rush this step! Chilling allows the bars to set properly and enhances their flavor.
• Overbaking the bars – Keep an eye on them while they bake. Overbaked bars can become dry. Aim for a slight jiggle in the center when removing from the oven.
• Not leveling the crust – Make sure your crust is evenly pressed into the pan. An uneven crust can lead to inconsistent baking and tough edges.
• Ignoring freshness of lemons – Fresh-squeezed lemon juice gives optimal flavor. Bottled juice lacks the vibrant taste needed for perfect bars.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Cream Cheese Lemon Bars in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on low power for about 15-20 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?

Yes! You can substitute lime or orange juice for different flavors while still keeping that creamy texture.

How do I make gluten-free Cream Cheese Lemon Bars?

You can replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add toppings?

Absolutely! Fresh berries or whipped cream are great options to enhance your Cream Cheese Lemon Bars.

What should I do if my filling is lumpy?

If your filling isn’t smooth, blend it again after adding all ingredients. Ensuring cream cheese is at room temperature helps prevent lumps.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various flavors and toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats!