Lemon Chewies
Lemon Chewies are delightful, tangy bars with a creamy lemon flavor, perfect for parties, picnics, or a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, lemon cake mix, and 1 egg; press into a greased pan and set aside.
- Beat the remaining cream cheese, confectioners sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 egg until creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.
- Cool in the pan before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter for the crust. If you don’t have lemon cake mix, a vanilla cake mix with added lemon zest can work as a substitute. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. To make the bars more tangy, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Chewies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings or dessert after a meal. Consider browsing more American recipes for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Chewies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm. These bars can also be served cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Chewies contains roughly 244 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute a different flavor of cake mix, such as vanilla or yellow, for a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that the lemon flavor will be less pronounced. Experimenting can lead to unique combinations that suit your palate.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Lemon Chewies, substitute the lemon cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the confectioners sugar, are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat without gluten.
What can I do if my cream cheese mixture is too thick?
If your cream cheese mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to loosen it up. This will help achieve a smoother consistency, making it easier to spread over the crust. Blend well until you reach the desired 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).