“Luscious Lemon Cream Bars Recipe: A Tangy and Sweet Delight

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• For the filling:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs
  • 2/3 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• For the cream layer:
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Preparing the Crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour and 1/3 cup sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Making the Filling:

4. Mix the filling: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup flour. Add eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined. Pour over the baked crust.

Adding the Cream Layer:

5. Prepare the cream layer: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently spread over the lemon filling.

Baking:

6. Bake the bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
7. Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Serving:

8. Finish and serve: Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into bars. Serve chilled.

Conclusion:

These lemon cream bars are a delightful treat, perfect for spring picnics, summer BBQs, or as a bright dessert during the colder months. The combination of a buttery crust, zesty lemon filling, and creamy topping makes for a refreshing and indulgent experience. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious bars!