Delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Bars with a creamy lemon filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time35 minutesmins
Total Time50 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 9servings
Calories: 280kcal
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Baking Dish
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
1.5cupsGraham cracker crumbs
0.25cupGranulated sugar
6tablespoonsUnsalted butter (melted)
Filling Ingredients
2packagesCream cheese (softened to room temperature)(8 oz each)
0.5cupGranulated sugar
2largeEggs (room temperature)
2lemonsZest and juice(about 1/4 cup fresh juice)
1teaspoonVanilla extract
Optional Toppings
Powdered sugar(for dusting, optional)
Fresh berries(such as raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries, optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well, then press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggles.
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries if desired.
Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For the best texture, chill the bars thoroughly before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.