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Lemon Bars with Cream Cheese

Lemon Bars with Cream Cheese: A Refreshing Twist on Tradition

Delight in these Lemon Bars with Cream Cheese, a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that will impress any crowd.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 12 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup Butter Use softened butter for easier creaming.
  • 1 cup Sugar Granulated sugar is required for the crust.
  • 4 large Eggs Can use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a lighter option.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour For gluten-free variations, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Always use a fine salt for even distribution.
  • 1 tablespoon Grated Lemon Zest Can use lime zest for a different flavor profile.
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Soften it at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 0.25 cup Butter Use softened butter for easier mixing.
  • 2 cups Confectioners' Sugar Sift before measuring for smooth frosting consistency.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice can be an alternative for a unique twist.

Equipment

  • Electric Mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • 13x9-inch baking pan
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Bars with Cream Cheese
  1. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in 4 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract into the creamed mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until all ingredients are well blended.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until fully combined.
  4. Spread the batter evenly into a greased 13x9-inch baking pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 18-22 minutes.
  5. In a medium bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter until fluffy and smooth.
  6. Once the lemon bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Serve chilled with your favorite tea or lemonade. Check for doneness to ensure the bars are perfect before cooling.

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