There’s something timeless and comforting about biting into a chilled square of lemon cream cheese bars. These little treats are the perfect blend of zesty lemon, smooth cream cheese, and a buttery, golden crust that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a spring brunch, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy weekend bake, this recipe brings sunshine into every bite.
And since cream cheese is one of the stars of this dish, it’s worth reviewing these CDC food safety guidelines to make sure your dairy ingredients are handled and stored safely. You’ll also pick up some solid tips on how to store leftovers the right way.
If you’re planning a full-course meal, consider pairing these bars with a savory entrée like smoked beef cheeks or choose from some easy sides for short ribs for the perfect balance. These bars make a bright, tangy finish to a hearty dinner.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced sweet and tangy lemon flavor
- Ultra-creamy texture from real cream cheese
- Simple ingredients and minimal prep
- Stores well and even tastes better the next day
- A springtime favorite for brunches, parties, or tea time
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (or use shortbread crust)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. Lightly grease with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Layer the Crust
Unroll one sheet of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Press seams together and stretch to cover the base fully.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Then add lemon juice, zest, vanilla, flour, and salt. Mix until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Layer
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly. If using a second sheet of dough, unroll and lay it gently over the filling.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the center has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking to keep the filling creamy.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Lift out using the parchment, slice into squares, and serve.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soften cream cheese fully before mixing
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor
- Chill before slicing for clean, professional-looking bars
- A serrated knife works best for cutting
Variations and Add-Ons
- Mix in fresh blueberries or raspberries before baking
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze after cooling
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of crescent dough for a twist
- Swap lemon for lime or orange for a citrus remix
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with coffee or tea
- Add to your spring dessert tray or brunch buffet
- Perfect after a savory meal like what to eat with short ribs
Storage and Freezing of The Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- To freeze: wrap individual bars in plastic, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice will give you a much brighter flavor and is highly recommended for this recipe.
Can I prepare these bars a day ahead?
Absolutely. In fact, they taste even better the next day after the flavors have settled and the bars have fully chilled.
What’s the best type of crust for this recipe?
You can use crescent dough, graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or shortbread. All work well depending on your desired flavor and texture.
Can these be frozen?
Yes. Once cooled and cut, wrap them tightly and freeze. They thaw beautifully and retain their creamy texture.
Related Recipes and Pairings
Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 packages 8 oz each cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough or shortbread crust alternative
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Press crescent dough into the bottom of the dish to form a crust, pinching seams closed.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla, flour, and salt until creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- If using, place a second crescent sheet over the filling and gently press down.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Lift from the pan using parchment, slice into bars, and serve chilled.
- Enjoy your lemon cream cheese bars as a refreshing finish to any meal or party!
Notes
- You can use a graham cracker or shortbread crust instead of crescent dough.
- Add fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for an extra fruity twist.
- For a cleaner cut, chill fully before slicing and use a serrated knife.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
5 thoughts on “Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe: Easy, Creamy & Irresistible”