Description
Deliciously creamy and tangy lemon bars made using a lemon cake mix crust topped with a smooth cream cheese filling, baked to perfection and dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 15.25 ounces lemon cake mix (boxed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (freshly grated, optional)
Topping
- Additional powdered sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 × 13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, 1 large egg, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth, dough-like consistency. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the 2 beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the filling is creamy and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the edges turn a golden brown shade. The center may sink slightly, which is normal for this recipe.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle additional powdered sugar over the top before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy your creamy lemon bars!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling texture.
- Fresh lemon zest is optional but adds an extra burst of lemon flavor.
- The center of the lemon bars may sink slightly after baking, which is normal.
- Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to ensure neat squares.
- For easier serving, chill the bars in the refrigerator after cooling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
