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Deliciously refreshing lemon cream bars topped with a smooth creamy layer.

Refreshing Lemon Cream Bars

Delightful lemon cream bars that bring a zesty punch, perfect for any occasion or a sweet treat on warm summer days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.33 cups ⅓ cup granulated sugar
For the lemon filling
  • 1 cup 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons) Fresh juice is recommended.
  • 16 oz 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature for smooth mixing.
  • 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 4 large 4 large eggs
  • 2 zest Zest of 2 lemons

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture into an even layer at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, until it’s lightly golden.
Filling and Baking
  1. Whip Up the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each egg before adding the next. Mix in the fresh lemon juice and zest until everything is well combined.
  2. Pour and Bake Again: Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar right before serving.

Notes

Use fresh lemons for both juice and zest. Make sure your cream cheese is room temperature to avoid lumps in your filling. If you like a crunchier crust, bake it a little longer.