Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Name: Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups (140g) graham cracker crumbs (about 9 full-size sheets); 1/8 tsp salt; 2 1/2 Tbsp granulated sugar; 5 Tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, divided; 1 tsp powdered gelatin; 1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, brought to room temperature; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Few drops natural yellow food color and a tiny dot of red (such as Watkins or Simple Truth); 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 3 Tbsp powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 21, 2025

Updated:

March 21, 2025

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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect treat to brighten your day! Imagine sinking your teeth into a creamy, zesty dessert that balances sweetness with that signature lemon tang. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to make, which is a win-win! You don’t need fancy techniques or hours in the kitchen. The no-bake approach ensures you can whip them up quickly, and the addition of gelatin gives these bars that smooth, perfect texture. Picture a sunny afternoon, friends gathered around, sharing stories and enjoying a slice of these heavenly bars. It’s the kind of dessert that sparks joy and makes memories. So, whether you’re serving them at a potluck or simply treating yourself, Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are sure to be a hit!

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Why This Recipe Works

Creating Lemon Cream Cheese Bars is all about balance. The creamy richness of the cream cheese is perfectly offset by the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice. This harmony of flavors is truly satisfying. Plus, the no-bake method makes it incredibly convenient! You can enjoy these bars without worrying about turning on the oven and waiting for things to bake. Another highlight? The inclusion of gelatin—this adds a wonderful texture that holds everything together beautifully without being overly firm. All these elements come together, creating a treat that’s loved by many.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

There’s so much to adore about Lemon Cream Cheese Bars. First, the flavor profile is just right! You get the perfect blend of sweet and tangy that pairs well with warm weather. Just imagine serving these at your next outdoor gathering; they’re bound to be a crowd-pleaser! Not only are they delicious, but they are also easy to prepare. Plus, they’re simple to transport, making them suitable for parties, potlucks, or just a sunny picnic in the park.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make these delightful bars:

1 1/4 cups (140g) graham cracker crumbs (about 9 full-size sheets)
1/8 tsp salt
2 1/2 Tbsp granulated sugar
5 Tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, divided
1 tsp powdered gelatin
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, brought to room temperature
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Few drops natural yellow food color and a tiny dot of red (such as Watkins or Simple Truth)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
3 Tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Combine the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. This is the base of your crust—trust me, it’s essential for that delightful crunch.

Add the Butter

Next, pour in melted butter. Toss everything together with a fork until the crumbs are moistened. You want it to resemble wet sand, which is crucial for a firm crust.

Press Into Pie Plate

Now, it’s time to press this mixture into a 9-inch glass pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup for that even firmness. Every inch counts when it comes to dessert perfection!

Bake and Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Once done, let it cool completely on a wire rack before adding the filling. This step prevents the filling from melting into a warm crust.

How to Prepare the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling

Create the Gelatin Mixture

In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and sprinkle the gelatin over it. Whisk immediately and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the gelatin to bloom perfectly.

Whip the Cream Cheese

In a larger mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to get everything well mixed!

Heat the Gelatin

Give the gelatin mixture a quick zap in the microwave for about 15 seconds to dissolve it. Whisk it again to ensure it’s thoroughly mixed and ready to join the other ingredients.

Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s time to combine! To your whipped cream cheese, add the sweetened condensed milk, the remaining lemon juice (that’s 6 tablespoons), lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a splash of natural food coloring. Blend until everything is well combined, scraping down the bowl as needed.

Fold in Gelatin

While you continue mixing on medium speed, gradually pour in the dissolved gelatin. This adds structure to your filling and keeps it nice and creamy.

Fill the Crust

Pour the lemon filling into your cooled graham cracker crust. Spread it out evenly, then transfer it to the fridge. Allow it to chill until set, which should take at least 4 hours. A little patience goes a long way!

How to Make the Whipped Topping

Whip the Heavy Cream

In a medium mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks start to form. This will be your luscious topping, so make sure it’s nice and fluffy!

Add Sugar and Vanilla

Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form. The key here is to achieve that perfect consistency—stiff enough to hold its shape, but still soft.

Pipe the Topping

If you’re feeling fancy, pipe the whipped cream over the pie using a pastry bag fitted with a star tip. This adds an elegant touch to your dessert presentation!

Serving Suggestions

When serving these delicious bars, consider garnishing with fresh lemon slices. They add a vibrant touch, making the presentation pop! You can also serve each slice with a dollop of extra whipped cream for added indulgence. Pairing them with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries not only enhances the flavor but also creates an Instagram-worthy moment.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Lemon Cream Cheese Bars turn out perfectly, keep a few tips in mind. First, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this helps with easy mixing. Fresh lemons are key for that bright flavor, so don’t skimp! Lastly, allow the pie to chill fully. This chilling time is essential for developing that amazing texture.

Variations

If you want to mix things up, consider swapping lemon for lime. It brings a tangy twist that is equally delightful! Feel free to add fresh fruit toppings like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. And if you’re in the mood, using a cookie crust instead of graham crackers can change the entire vibe of the dessert.

Storage Tips

These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh. Cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and luscious. While you might be tempted to freeze them, doing so can affect the texture, so it’s best to enjoy them chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I use packaged lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its brighter flavor, you can use bottled juice in a pinch if needed.

2. How do I know when the pie is set?
A good test is to gently touch the top of the pie; it should feel firm and not jiggly in the center once it’s set, usually after at least 4 hours in the fridge.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie a day in advance, which is perfect for parties and gatherings.

4. What can I use instead of gelatin?
As a vegetarian alternative, try agar-agar, but follow the package’s instructions carefully for proper proportions.

5. How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you’d like a less sweet dessert, you can decrease the amount of sweetened condensed milk used in the recipe.

Indulging in these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars not only satisfies your taste buds but also brightens your day with vibrant flavors. Their creamy, fluffy texture paired with the tangy zest of lemon makes them an irresistible treat, whether for a cozy family dessert or a festive gathering with friends. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, these bars are bound to impress and bring joy to your table.

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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Ingredients