Easy Cheese Lemon Bars
These tangy and sweet Lemon Bars feature a buttery crust topped with a creamy lemon cheesecake layer, perfect for citrus lovers and dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch pan on the bottom only.
- Combine lemon cake mix, softened butter, and egg in a large bowl until well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, blend the frosting mix and softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the frosting mixture for frosting the bars later.
- Add 2 eggs to the remaining frosting mixture and beat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Frost the cooled bars with the reserved frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, add lemon zest to the frosting mixture. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese. Make sure to beat the batter thoroughly to ensure it's well combined, which helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling. If you want a firmer crust, consider adding a bit of flour to the cake mix mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Cheese Lemon Bars are delightful on their own but can also be served with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of elegance. Pair them with a light tea or coffee for a refreshing dessert experience. They make a wonderful addition to a summer picnic or a brunch spread, complementing dishes like Prune Harvest Bread or Coconut Krinkles.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cheese Lemon Bars contains roughly 236 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 15g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mix, such as vanilla or yellow, to create different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that the lemon flavor will be less pronounced, so you may want to add additional lemon juice or zest to maintain that citrusy taste.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Greek yogurt is also a good substitute, but it may alter the consistency slightly, making the bars a bit less creamy. Adjust the sweetness as needed since some alternatives might be less sweet.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The lemon bars are done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle but is not liquid. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).