Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
The ultimate treat for lemon lovers! These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are creamy, tangy, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests! Try them tonight!
Equipment
- Zester
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
- Hand-held electric mixer
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 2 tubes refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened
- zest from 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is crucial for achieving the perfect bake. While the oven heats up, line the bottom of a 9X13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If you choose foil, remember to spray it lightly with cooking spray.
- Unroll one tube of crescent roll dough and stretch it carefully to cover the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake this layer for about 5 minutes until it’s slightly golden. This initial baking helps to set the base.
- Remove the base from the oven and let it cool. In the meantime, grab your hand-held electric mixer and beat the cream cheese along with the lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The texture should be light and fluffy.
- Now, set aside about 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for garnishing later. Add the remaining zest and 1/2 cup sugar along with the vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again until everything is well blended and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the cooled crescent dough base. Make sure to cover it completely so every bite has that creamy goodness.
- Unroll the second piece of crescent roll dough and lay it gently on top of the cream cheese layer. Stretch it slightly to fit over the filling.
- Brush the top with melted butter for a beautiful golden finish. Then, combine the reserved 3 tablespoons sugar with the reserved lemon zest and sprinkle this mixture generously on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!
- Once baked, let the bars cool for 20 minutes at room temperature. Then, cut them into squares and refrigerate until they are fully chilled. This chilling time will help set the filling and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Chilling is Essential: These bars need adequate chilling time for the best texture and flavor. Aim for at least two hours in the refrigerator.
- Don’t Rush the Dough: Ensure the crescent roll dough is fully stretched to avoid any gaps. This will help keep the cream cheese filling intact.
- Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use fresh lemons for zest and juice instead of bottled alternatives.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They usually last about four days.