Cream Cheese Lemon Bars Recipe – A Perfectly Tangy & Sweet Dessert

If you love the refreshing taste of lemon combined with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, these Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are about to become your new favorite dessert. They strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet, making them ideal for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to elegant tea parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for:

• Lemon lovers who enjoy a burst of citrus in their desserts.
• Busy bakers looking for an easy, foolproof recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Those who love creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treats with a buttery crust.
• Anyone who enjoys making desserts ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, these bars come together effortlessly. Plus, they store well, so you can make them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients

To make Cream Cheese Lemon Bars, you will need:

For the Crust:

• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 1/3 cup butter or margarine, softened
• 1 egg

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 lemon, grated (zest)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice or juice from 1/2 fresh-squeezed lemon
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls – One for the crust and one for the filling.
• Electric mixer – Helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture for the filling.
• 9×13-inch baking pan – The perfect size for this recipe.
• Foil or parchment paper – Makes lifting the bars out of the pan easier.
• Microplane or grater – For zesting the lemon.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or offset spatula – To spread the layers evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×13-inch pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving extra overhang on the sides for easy removal.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, softened butter, and 1 egg. Mix until crumbly.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 10 minutes and then remove from the oven. Set aside while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Lemon Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the filling is set.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 20 minutes.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results).

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Use the foil or parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
2. Cut into squares and dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Shortcut Tip: Use a pre-made graham cracker crust instead of the cake mix crust for a slightly different texture.
• Extra Zesty: If you love intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 1 full lemon.
• Add a Topping: A dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh raspberries make for a stunning presentation.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the cake mix for a gluten-free lemon cake mix.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQ Section

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars taste even better the next day. Refrigerate them overnight for the best flavor and texture.

How do I get clean, neat slices?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.

What can I serve with these lemon bars?

These bars pair beautifully with hot tea, iced coffee, or a glass of chilled lemonade.

Final Thoughts

These Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a deliciously tangy, creamy, and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family get-together, a summer picnic, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re sure to be a hit.

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