Hey there, lovely bakers! Today, I’m super excited to share a treat that’s guaranteed to brighten your day — Lemon Cream Cheese Bars! These bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a buttery shortbread crust, creamy lemony filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar for that irresistible finishing touch.

Whether you’re making them for a spring brunch, afternoon snack, or just because you deserve something sweet, these bars are about to become your new favorite treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep time.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of lemon.
• Buttery & Creamy Texture: A melt-in-your-mouth crust with a silky cream cheese filling.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for dessert, brunch, or potlucks!

What Do Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Taste Like?

Imagine a soft, buttery shortbread crust topped with creamy lemon cheesecake filling that’s bursting with fresh lemon flavor — light, refreshing, and totally addictive!

Ingredients 🛒

For the Crust

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 egg
• Zest and juice from one lemon (about 2 tablespoons juice + 1 teaspoon zest)
• ½ cup granulated sugar

For Topping

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Zester

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and mix until crumbly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and well combined.
4. Assemble: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
5. Bake Again: Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
6. Cool: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
7. Dust & Serve: Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

What to Serve with Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

• A cup of hot tea or coffee ☕
• Fresh berries on the side
• Whipped cream
• A drizzle of honey

Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Bars 🌟

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to get clean slices.
• Sprinkle powdered sugar just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Add a little vanilla extract to the filling for extra depth.

How to Store

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled will work in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are like sunshine in every bite — bright, creamy, and totally irresistible! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, they’re bound to disappear fast.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, share your creation on Pinterest, or tag me on Instagram.

Craving More Sweet Treats?

Try these next:

• Lemon Pound Cake
• Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Blueberry Crumble Bars

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

Happy Baking! 🍋✨