Name: Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 large egg; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re searching for a dreamy dessert that balances a sweet, tangy kick with creamy decadence, look no further than Lemon Cream Cheese Bars. These gorgeous squares blend soft, buttery cake with a luxuriously smooth lemon cream cheese layer, creating a bite that’s as cheerful as it is irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering, need a midweek pick-me-up, or simply adore lemony treats, this recipe will become your go-to for smiles, sunshine, and a little extra zest in your day.

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Lemon Cream Cheese Bars is how just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients join forces to make something truly special. Every component has a purpose, from the vivid citrus notes to the rich, tangy filling—so picking quality ingredients will make your bars shine!

Lemon cake mix: Brings a cheerful yellow color and an instant bright, lemony flavor to the crust.
Melted butter: Adds richness and helps give the base that perfect, tender texture.
Large eggs (divided): One for the crust and another for the filling, binding everything together and boosting the creaminess.
Cream cheese (softened): The heart of the creamy layer—make sure it’s at room temperature for the smoothest filling.
Powdered sugar: Perfectly sweetens the topping and keeps it ultra-silky; plus, you can dust a bit on for a pretty finish.
Fresh lemon juice: Use freshly squeezed if possible for the brightest, truest citrus punch!
Lemon zest: Intensifies that signature lemon zip and perfumes every bite—don’t skip!
Vanilla extract: A splash balances the tartness and rounds everything out with a subtle, warm note.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F—it’s essential for even baking and that delicate, lightly golden edge. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure those delicious bars will lift out easily when they’re ready to serve.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, melted butter, and one of the eggs. Stir until a soft, cohesive dough comes together. The mixture will be thick and a little sticky; that’s a good sign. Press the dough firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly to create the perfect base for your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth—no lumps, please! Add in the remaining egg, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is creamy and fully blended; this is where that irresistible citrus aroma really starts to bloom.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Pour the cream cheese mixture over your crust and spread it gently to all corners. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot—it will set up beautifully. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for light golden edges and a center that just sets but isn’t overbaked.

Step 5: Cool, Chill, and Slice

Here’s the hardest part: patience! Let your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars cool completely in the pan. For gorgeous, clean slices and the dreamiest texture, cover and chill them for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving. This step cements the flavor and makes them so easy to cut.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Garnishes

Just before serving, a dusting of powdered sugar instantly adds elegance. For a little extra flair, scatter a few curls of lemon zest or garnish each bar with a thin lemon slice. Fresh berries on top also look beautiful and taste incredible with the creamy lemony filling.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars with a simple mug of tea, iced coffee, or a tall glass of lemonade for peak refreshment. If you’re serving them at a brunch or gathering, consider a bowl of fresh berries, a platter of mixed citrus segments, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra cool treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the bars on a tiered stand for a classic tea party vibe, or place them in colorful cupcake liners for grab-and-go snacks. For special occasions, arrange them on a white serving plate with edible flowers or tuck a small sprig of mint next to each square for an effortless, photo-ready effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Lemon Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. The cold keeps them fresh, and they taste fabulous chilled—some say even better the next day! Just layer parchment paper between stacked bars to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these bars. After cooling and slicing, arrange them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to two months; just thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you crave a slightly warmer bite, pop a bar in the microwave for a few seconds. Just don’t overdo it, as the filling can become too soft.

FAQs

Can I use another cake mix flavor instead of lemon?

Absolutely! While lemon brings that signature tang, you can experiment with vanilla or white cake mix for a milder base, or even try strawberry for a pink twist. Just note that using a different flavor will change the personality of your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars—but sometimes, that’s half the fun!

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free lemon cake mix. Most mainstream brands have a gluten-free option that works well in this recipe. Keep an eye on mixing and baking times, as gluten-free mixes may behave a bit differently.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Double all ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans, or bake in one massive sheet pan if available. Just make sure to monitor the baking time, as larger batches may take a bit longer to set in the center.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start turning a light golden brown and the center looks set but slightly jiggles if you gently shake the pan. Avoid overbaking—the creamy middle will firm up as the bars cool and chill.

Can I add extra lemon for more flavor?

Yes! If you’re a true lemon lover, feel free to add more lemon zest or an extra splash of juice to the filling. Just remember that too much liquid might make the bars softer, so balance zest and juice for that ultimate lemon punch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing a pan of homemade Lemon Cream Cheese Bars—they never fail to dazzle and delight with their sunny color and creamy zing. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear from the plate. I’d love to hear how they brighten your day!

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. A simple and easy-to-make treat that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
1/3 cup melted butter
1 large egg

Topping:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the lemon cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg to form a soft dough. Press the dough into the baking dish to create the crust.
Make the topping: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining egg, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy.
Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and bake for 25–30 minutes until set. Cool, slice into bars, and chill before serving.