Lemon Cheese Bars
Lemon Cheese Bars offer a delightful combination of tangy lemon flavor and creamy cheese atop a buttery crumbly crust. Perfect for afternoon tea or casual gatherings, their bright citrus taste and smooth texture make them a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy fresh, zesty desserts with a rich finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, 1 egg, and 1/3 cup of oil until crumbly.
- Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture and press the remaining mixture lightly into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes in a 350°F oven.
- Beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and 1 egg until light and smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of crumb mixture over the top.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Cool and cut into squares before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure that the cream cheese is very soft before mixing, and consider using a lower-fat cream cheese if desired. You can substitute the lemon pudding mix with vanilla for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the sugar slightly, or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon cheese bars are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a fresh fruit smoothie for a refreshing treat. Consider serving them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack, or as a sweet addition to a brunch spread. They can also complement a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm. Enjoy them cold or warm, depending on your preference.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Cheese Bars contains roughly 149 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 12g 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 make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These lemon cheese bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are cooled completely before storing them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free lemon pudding mix instead of the regular one. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the cream cheese and sugar, are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
How can I make these bars more lemony?
To intensify the lemon flavor, you can add the zest of one lemon to the cream cheese mixture. Alternatively, a tablespoon of lemon extract can also enhance the citrus notes without altering the texture.
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).