Lemon Cream Cheesers
Lemon Cream Cheesers are delightful bars featuring a buttery crust, tangy lemon flavor, and creamy filling, perfect for dessert lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the first five ingredients (butter, flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt) and mix until crumbly.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 8 or 9-inch square pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, egg, grated lemon rind, lemon juice, and milk.
- Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, use low-fat cream cheese and consider substituting half of the butter with applesauce. If you want a bit more zest, increase the lemon juice to 2 tablespoons. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor. For a gluten-free option, swap the flour with a gluten-free blend.
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Cream Cheesers are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with Basic Ice Cream for a refreshing dessert. Serve them alongside a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. Consider adding fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the bars in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until slightly warm. This helps to retain their creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Cream Cheesers contains roughly 216 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 710mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
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 different fruits instead of lemon?
Yes, you can substitute lemon with lime or orange for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose. Keep in mind that the zest and juice will change the overall taste, so taste as you go.
Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheesers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What can I serve with Lemon Cream Cheesers?
These bars are versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. They go well with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of lemon glaze. For a complete dessert, pair them with a scoop of Basic Ice Cream for a delightful contrast.
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).