Zesty Cream Cheese Lemon Bars

A delightful twist on classic lemon bars, these Zesty Cream Cheese Lemon Bars offer a creamy, tangy filling with a buttery crust, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and impressing guests.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Serves: 9

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons lemon zest

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.

2. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Press into the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

3. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

4. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

5. Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until fully combined.

6. Stir in the baking powder and salt.

7. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly.

8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until set and the edges are lightly golden.

9. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar.

10. Cut into squares and serve.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Reheating

To reheat, let bars sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

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This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.