Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars feature a buttery crescent roll crust layered with a luscious lemon-cream cheese filling, topped with a golden baked crust sprinkled with a sweet sugar and lemon zest mixture. Perfect as a tangy, creamy dessert or a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust and Topping
- Cooking spray, as needed
- 2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
Filling
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup white sugar
- Juice of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Bottom Layer: Unroll one package of the refrigerated crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a solid base layer.
- Make and Spread Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ½ cup of white sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spread this lemon cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom crescent dough layer.
- Top Layer and Garnish: Unroll the second package of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cream cheese filling, covering it completely. Brush the melted butter evenly over the top dough layer. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of sugar with the lemon zest and sprinkle this mixture over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled to let the flavors meld and make slicing easier.
- Serve: Cut into 24 bars and serve chilled. Enjoy these refreshing lemon cream cheese bars as a delightful dessert or snack.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and bright lemon zest aroma.
- Chilling the bars before serving helps them set perfectly and makes cutting neater.
- This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator covered for up to 3 days.
- For a twist, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture.
