Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars offer a tangy and creamy dessert experience with a sweet and slightly crunchy crust made from yellow cake mix. The rich cream cheese filling is infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust and topping:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is crumbly but combined. Press two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust layer.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining egg. Beat together until the filling is creamy and well blended.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust in the pan. Then crumble the remaining cake mix mixture over the top of the filling as a topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set.
- Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set before slicing.
- Slice and serve: Cut into 16 bars and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add additional lemon zest or a few drops of lemon extract to the filling mixture.
- Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
