Bright, creamy, and irresistibly tangy—these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect fusion of cheesecake richness and refreshing citrus flavor. Featuring a buttery shortbread crust, silky lemon-infused cream cheese filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re ideal for spring gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave a zesty dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Bright lemon flavor with a rich cream cheese filling
-
Easy shortbread crust that holds up beautifully
-
Perfect for entertaining, potlucks, and family gatherings
-
Freezer-friendly and make-ahead ready
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Crust:
-
All-Purpose Flour (1½ cups) – Forms the structure of the shortbread crust.
-
Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Adds sweetness with a delicate texture.
-
Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, cold and cubed) – Creates a rich, crumbly base that holds together beautifully after baking.
For the Filling:
-
Cream Cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each, softened) – The creamy star of the filling; brings that classic cheesecake texture and tang.
-
Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the filling and balances the lemon’s tartness.
-
Eggs (2 large) – Bind the ingredients and give the bars structure.
-
Fresh Lemon Juice (¼ cup) – Delivers a punch of fresh citrus flavor.
-
Lemon Zest (1 tbsp) – Enhances the lemony aroma and depth of flavor.
-
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and rounds out the tart notes.
Optional Toppings:
-
Thin Lemon Slices – A beautiful garnish for presentation and extra zest.
-
Powdered Sugar – Lightly dusted for a classic, elegant finish.
Tips and Tricks
-
Use room temperature cream cheese for a lump-free filling.
-
Don’t skip the chill time—it ensures the bars firm up properly.
-
For clean slices, wipe your knife between each cut.
-
Use a microplane for zesting lemons without the bitter pith.
Variations and Customizations
-
Berry Lemon Bars: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries to the filling.
-
Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the shortbread crust for a graham cracker base.
-
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
-
Lemon-Lime Twist: Add lime juice and zest for a citrus blend.
Pairing Suggestions
-
Iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing combo
-
Espresso or black coffee to cut through the richness
-
Light fruit salad as a brunch side
Storage Instructions
-
Refrigerate: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
-
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I double the recipe for a 9×13 pan?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and increase the bake time by 5–8 minutes.
What’s the best cream cheese to use?
Use full-fat brick-style cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.
