If you’re looking for the perfect combination of tangy, creamy, and sweet, Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are about to become your new obsession. With a buttery crust, luscious lemon-kissed filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar, this easy dessert packs a punch of refreshing flavor in every bite. Whether you need a crowd-pleasing potluck treat or a simple weeknight indulgence, these bars check all the boxes with their effortless prep and irresistible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are pantry-friendly but crucial to creating the ultimate dessert. Each one plays a special role, bringing its own texture, flavor, or color to the mix. Let’s break down why you won’t want to skip a single thing!
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): This shortcut forms the perfect sweet, pillowy base, and saves time measuring out dry ingredients.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): The star for richness and that signature melt-in-your-mouth crust.
- Large egg (for crust): Holds the crust together and gives it structure and chew.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The heart of the filling—make sure it’s really soft for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Dissolves easily into the filling for a velvety sweetness and that classic finish on top.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Gives the bars their signature zing; fresh is best for vibrant flavor.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Packs an incredible citrus aroma and extra depth of lemony flavor.
- Large egg (for filling): Ensures the filling sets up rich and custardy.
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional): Adds a beautiful snowy finish and a sweet first bite.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Stir until everything is evenly blended and a soft, sticky dough forms. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This crust bakes up golden and tender, reliably supporting the creamy layer that’s up next.
Step 2: Whip Up the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and fluffy—this is key for a luxurious filling without any lumps. Add the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and the second egg. Beat until creamy and fully combined, scraping down the sides as needed. The result is a dreamy, tangy mixture that smells absolutely divine.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the lemon cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, making sure it reaches every corner for consistent perfection. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re aiming for edges that are just turning golden and a center that’s set but still has the slightest jiggle. This is what keeps every bite creamy and luscious.
Step 4: Cool, Chill, and Slice
After removing the bars from the oven, let them cool completely on the counter. For the best texture and cleanest slices, refrigerate your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars for at least 1 hour. This chilling time is worth it—the bars set up beautifully and the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar if you like, then slice into perfect squares.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Garnishes
A simple cloud of powdered sugar is classic for Lemon Cream Cheese Bars, making them instantly tempting and extra special. For a fancier presentation, sprinkle with extra lemon zest or garnish each bar with a thin lemon twist. A few fresh raspberries or blueberries on the side also add great color and complement the citrus flavors.
Side Dishes
While these bars truly shine on their own, they play nicely alongside other desserts like vanilla bean ice cream or a bowl of fresh mixed fruit. For a spring or summer gathering, pair them with herbal teas, lemonade, or even a sweet white wine for a refreshing dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Dress up your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars by cutting them into triangles, bite-sized cubes, or using cookie cutters for fun shapes (hearts, anyone?). Arrange them in cupcake liners for an easy grab-and-go treat, or stack them on a tiered platter with edible flowers for a stunning centerpiece at brunches and baby showers. You can also drizzle a simple lemon glaze or white chocolate over the top for an extra layer of flavor and artistry.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and sliced, keep your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 5 days—perfect for nibbling throughout the week or prepping ahead for a party.
Freezing
These bars freeze surprisingly well! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep their flavor and texture in the freezer for up to 3 months; simply thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer them a bit softer, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave does the trick. Just be careful not to overheat, as the filling can become too soft and the crust might lose its crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for the crust?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix gives a buttery, classic flavor, a white or lemon cake mix would add even more citrus pop. Feel free to experiment with what you have—just keep the measurements the same for best results.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely. If you’d like more Lemon Cream Cheese Bars for a big gathering, double the ingredients and bake them in two pans or a slightly larger baking dish. Just keep an eye on baking time—the bars are done when the edges are golden and the filling is set.
How do I make the filling even more lemony?
For maximum citrus kick, add an extra tablespoon of fresh lemon juice or a few drops of lemon extract along with more zest. You can also layer thin slices of lemon on top before baking for a pretty and punchy finish.
Can I make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars gluten free?
Yes, you can substitute your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix for the regular one without much fuss. Be sure to check the instructions on your mix, as you may need to adjust liquids slightly, but otherwise, follow the recipe as written.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
For pristine, bakery-worthy bars, chill them thoroughly before cutting and use a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between each cut for smooth edges. Running your knife under hot water and drying it off before slicing also helps prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
Give these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars a try, and you’ll see why they’re so beloved—tangy, sweet, and luxuriously creamy, yet stunningly easy to make. They’re the ultimate treat for any occasion, and I can’t wait for them to become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful tangy sweetness of these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars. A buttery cake mix crust supports a luscious cream cheese filling infused with zesty lemon flavors. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Cake Mix Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 large egg (for filling)
- optional: extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg in a bowl to form a dough. Press into the dish for the crust.
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1 egg. Blend until creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour cream cheese mixture over crust. Bake for 25–30 minutes until set. Cool, refrigerate, and slice. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Enhance lemon flavor with more juice or extract.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bars freeze well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
