Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Name: Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-481816H3M20S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent roll dough; 2 lemons, zested and juiced; 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened; ½ cup white sugar; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 3 tablespoons white sugar

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a delightful dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars! Bursting with tangy lemon flavor and creamy goodness, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into how to create these irresistible bars that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

To craft these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars, you’ll need the following:

Cooking spray

2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent roll dough

2 lemons, zested and juiced

½ cup white sugar

2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons butter, melted

3 tablespoons white sugar

Easy-to-Follow Directions

Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch of Lemon Cream Cheese Bars:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and aluminum foil.

Unroll one package of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring it stretches to the edges.

In a large bowl, mix together lemon juice and zest, then beat in softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture over the crescent roll dough in the baking dish.

Unroll the second package of crescent roll dough and place it over the cream cheese mixture, stretching it to cover the filling. Brush melted butter on top, then sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and lemon zest.

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Once baked, allow the bars to cool for about 20 minutes.

Lift the dessert from the baking dish using the foil, transfer it to a cutting board, and cut into squares. Return the bars to the baking dish and refrigerate until chilled, for at least 1 hour.

Tips and Variations

For a lower-calorie option, you can substitute Splenda for sugar and use low-fat cream cheese.

Experiment with adding other fruits or flavors to customize the bars to your liking.

Serve these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars as a refreshing summer treat or a delightful dessert any time of the year.

Related Recipes:

Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls

Serving Tips:

Garnish each serving with a twist of fresh lemon zest for a burst of vibrant flavor and visual appeal.

Accompany each bar with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Serve alongside a cup of hot tea or a glass of iced lemonade for a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the bars.

Arrange the bars on a decorative platter or cake stand to elevate their presentation, perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.

Storage Tips:

Store any leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

These bars can be stored for up to 3-4 days, but for the best taste and texture, enjoy them within the first couple of days.

If you prefer serving them chilled, allow the bars to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.

To freeze the bars for longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

FAQs:

Can I use homemade crescent roll dough instead of refrigerated store-bought dough?

While store-bought crescent roll dough provides convenience and consistent results, you can certainly use homemade dough if preferred. Ensure that the homemade dough is rolled out to a similar thickness as the store-bought version to achieve even baking.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if fresh lemons are not available. However, keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant and fresh as using freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Can I make these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time for convenience. Simply prepare the bars as directed, then cover and refrigerate them until ready to serve. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the bars to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving, or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Bars for later?

Yes, these bars can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. Thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly affect the texture, but they will still be delicious.

Conclusion:

With their irresistible combination of tangy lemon zest, creamy cheese, and buttery crust, these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this easy-to-follow recipe is guaranteed to impress. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of creamy goodness with these delightful bars today

📖 Recipe: