LEMON CREAM CHEESE BARS

Zesty Bliss: Dive into Citrus Heaven with Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Embark on a journey of tangy delight with our irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Bars. These bars are a symphony of citrusy freshness and creamy indulgence, capturing the essence of sunny days in every bite. Join us in unlocking the secrets to creating this zesty sensation that’s not just a dessert but a burst of sunshine on your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Layer:

  • 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prep:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Create the Graham Cracker Crust:
    • In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a firm and even crust. Bake for 10 minutes and then let it cool.
  3. Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
    • Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined. Spread this mixture over the cooled crust.
  4. Lemon Infusion:
    • In a separate bowl, mix lemon curd, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until well combined.
    • Gently spread the lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer, creating a luscious lemony topping.
  5. Bake to Perfection:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
  6. Chill and Set:
    • Allow the Lemon Cream Cheese Bars to cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
  7. Slice and Garnish:
    • Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

Cook Notes:

  • Lemon Curd Consistency: Ensure your lemon curd is at room temperature for easy spreading over the cream cheese layer.
  • Graham Cracker Crust Perfection: Press the graham cracker crust firmly to create a stable base that complements the creamy layers.
  • Chilling Time: Allowing the bars to chill thoroughly ensures a firmer texture and enhances the flavors.
  • Fresh Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh lemon zest just before serving.

Variations:

Berry Burst:

  • Add a layer of fresh berries on top of the cream cheese layer before spreading the lemon mixture for a fruity twist.

Coconut Crunch:

  • Sprinkle shredded coconut over the lemon layer for a tropical touch and added texture.

Ginger Snap:

  • Mix ground ginger into the graham cracker crust for a subtle spicy kick that complements the citrusy notes.

Keto Version:

  • Use almond flour for the crust instead of graham cracker crumbs to reduce carb content.
  • Substitute a keto-friendly sweetener for granulated sugar in both the cream cheese and lemon layers.
  • Ensure the lemon curd used is sugar-free or make a keto-friendly version.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Opt for a low-carb sweetener in place of granulated sugar in both the cream cheese and lemon layers.
  • Choose a low-carb nut flour or coconut flour for the crust.
  • Select a sugar-free or low-carb lemon curd for the topping.

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a testament to the enchanting combination of citrus and creaminess. With each layer offering a distinct yet harmonious flavor, these bars are a celebration of the vibrant taste of lemons. Perfect for any occasion or a simple indulgence, they are a delightful way to bring a touch of sunshine to your dessert repertoire. So, let the refreshing flavors of lemon transport you to a citrusy paradise with every heavenly bite of these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars.