Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Update : March 24, 2026

Delicious lemon cream cheese bars topped with a citrus glaze

Simple, bright, and creamy lemon bars with a soft cream cheese layer make a great dessert for any day.

introduction

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars mix a tart lemon layer with a smooth cream cheese filling on a crisp crust. They taste fresh, not too sweet, and they are easy to make. Kids and adults like them.

why make this recipe

It is simple and uses easy ingredients.
It is quick to bake and cool.
It makes a nice dessert for guests or a snack for home.
You can make it ahead and keep in the fridge.

how to make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Make a firm crust, beat the cream cheese filling smooth, add lemon for bright flavor, bake until set, and chill well before cutting. The steps are quick and easy to follow.

Ingredients :

1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs or plain biscuit crumbs
1/3 cup (75 g) sugar
6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted
8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, room temperature
2 tablespoons butter, softened (for filling)
2/3 cup (135 g) sugar (for filling)
1 large egg, room temperature
2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 1–2 lemons)
1/3 cup (80 ml) fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment, leaving extra to lift the bars out.
Mix the graham crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake 8–10 minutes until slightly golden. Let cool a few minutes.
Lower oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
Beat the cream cheese and 2 tablespoons butter until smooth. Add 2/3 cup sugar and beat until combined. Add the egg and beat just until mixed.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, and salt until smooth. Do not overmix.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the warm crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 18–22 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool on a rack to room temperature, then chill in the fridge at least 2 hours or until cold.
Lift bars from the pan, dust with powdered sugar if you like, and cut into squares.

how to serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Cut into small squares and serve cold. Add fresh berries or a lemon slice on top for color. These bars are nice with a cup of tea or coffee.

how to store Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze cut bars in a single layer on a tray, then wrap and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Use room temperature cream cheese and egg for a smooth filling.
Do not overbake; the center should be slightly jiggly when you remove it. It will firm as it cools.
Press the crust firmly so it holds when you cut the bars.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
Chill well before cutting to get neat squares.

variation (if any)

Add a thin blueberry jam layer between crust and filling for a fruit twist.
Use lime instead of lemon for a lime cream cheese bar.
Swap graham crumbs for shortbread crumbs for a richer crust.
Add a light vanilla glaze on top instead of powdered sugar.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make them a day ahead and keep them chilled. They taste even better after a few hours.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the texture may be softer and less rich.

Q: Must I use fresh lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.

Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger pan?
A: Yes. Use a 9×13 inch pan and bake a little longer, watching for the center to set.

Q: How do I get clean slices?
A: Chill the bars well, wipe the knife clean between cuts, or warm the knife under hot water and dry before slicing.

Conclusion

For a clear step-by-step version and photos, you can compare this method with Kitchn’s Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe. For another take and serving ideas, see Jenna Braddock’s Lemon Cream Cheese Bar.