Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars: A Simple and Delightful Dessert

Introduction
Looking for a dessert that combines tangy citrus flavor with creamy indulgence? These Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect solution! With a buttery crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a hint of lemon zest, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether for a party or a quiet afternoon treat, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• For the Crust and Topping:
  • 2 cans crescent roll dough
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
• For the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling:
  • 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Roll out one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the baking dish to create an even crust layer.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer until it is smooth and creamy.
3. Spread the filling evenly over the crescent dough base.

Step 3: Add the Top Layer

1. Roll out the second can of crescent dough and carefully place it over the cream cheese filling.
2. Pour melted butter evenly across the top layer.
3. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the buttered dough to create a sweet, crisp crust.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

1. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
2. Let the bars cool completely before cutting to allow the filling to set properly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the bars into squares or rectangles.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Success

• Use softened cream cheese to make blending easier and ensure a smooth filling.
• Adjust the lemon juice and zest for a stronger or milder citrus flavor.
• Refrigerate the bars for an hour before slicing to achieve clean cuts and a firmer texture.

Serving Ideas
Serve these Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars with a cup of tea, coffee, or a light sparkling drink. They make a delightful addition to dessert tables, brunch menus, or as an afternoon snack.

Why This Recipe Works

• A balance of tangy lemon and creamy sweetness.
• Quick and simple to prepare with basic pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special events.

Conclusion
These Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are a breeze to make and packed with fresh, bright flavors. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress your guests. Try it today and let us know how they turned out in the comments below!

Meta Description:
“Make these Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars for a perfect dessert! With a buttery crust, creamy filling, and citrusy flavor, this recipe is simple and delicious.”