Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert that seamlessly blends the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all layered over a buttery, crumbly base. These bars typically begin with a base layer made from a mixture of crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers, melded together with melted butter and a touch of sugar for sweetness. This creates a firm, crunchy foundation upon which the other layers rest.

The middle layer, the heart of this dessert, is a smooth, velvety mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and eggs. This cream cheese mixture is whipped until light and fluffy, ensuring a silky texture. Fresh lemon juice and zest are then incorporated, infusing the cream with a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Some recipes may also include vanilla extract or a hint of lemon extract to deepen the flavor profile.

After the cream cheese layer is smoothly spread over the base, the bars are typically topped with another thin layer of the biscuit mixture, creating a pleasant textural contrast. Some variations might include a simple glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar drizzled over the top, or a sprinkling of finely grated lemon zest for an extra pop of lemon flavor.

Once assembled, the bars are baked until the cream cheese layer is just set but still slightly wobbly in the center. This baking step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld together while maintaining the distinct layers. After baking, the bars are chilled in the refrigerator for several hours, allowing them to firm up for easy slicing.

The final product is a multi-textured treat: a crunchy, buttery base followed by a layer of smooth, lemon-infused cream cheese, all topped with either a crumbly biscuit topping or a sweet, tart glaze. The contrasting layers of texture and the balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars a uniquely satisfying dessert, perfect for a variety of occasions from casual gatherings to more formal events.

Ingredients:

1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk

2 egg yolks

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

For the crust:

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

4 tablespoons melted and cooled butter

PREPARATION:

Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Prep an 8×8-inch baking dish by either greasing with butter or lining with parchment paper.

Mix together the crust’s components – the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar, until you achieve a texture akin to wet sand.

Evenly and firmly press this mixture onto the baking dish’s base. Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until it turns a light golden brown. Allow it to cool for half an hour.

For the filling, whisk the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk together in a separate bowl until thoroughly mixed.

As you stir, slowly add the fresh lemon juice to this mix, ensuring it turns smooth and luscious.

Pour this lemony concoction over the pre-baked crust, ensuring an even spread.

Bake for another 15 minutes or until firm. Post baking, allow it to cool and settle for a minimum of 1 hour.

If you’ve used parchment paper, lift the lemon squares out, then slice them into desired portions.

Relish the velvety tartness of these Creamy Lemon Squares! Any remaining pieces can be refrigerated for future indulgence.

This dessert stands out as a classic embodiment of harmonized flavors. Its delightful juxtaposition of creamy lemon against a crisp crust will certainly win hearts, making the Creamy Lemon Squares a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy !