Dessert

Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

ByRafael Mansero October 31, 2025October 31, 2025

Introduction

These Lemon Cream Cheese Bars combine a zesty lemon flavor with a rich, creamy filling atop a buttery crust. They’re a bright, refreshing treat perfect for any occasion and easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.

The image shows several square-shaped dessert bars stacked and placed closely together on a wooden board, which is lying on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three distinct layers: the bottom layer is a light golden, crumbly crust; the middle layer is a thick, smooth, creamy yellow filling; and the top layer is a crumbly, golden-brown topping dusted lightly with powdered sugar. The edges of the bars are clean and the texture of the crust and topping looks crunchy, while the filling is soft and dense. The overall look is warm and inviting, with the bars slightly uneven on top, showing the crumbly texture clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Stir until a dough forms, then press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish to create the crust.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth. Add the 2 eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fully combined.
Step 4: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
Step 5: Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Step 6: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor; bottled lemon juice can work but may be less vibrant.
For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for an hour before slicing to get clean, neat bars.
Add a teaspoon of poppy seeds to the cream cheese layer for a fun texture and flavor twist.

Storage

Store the lemon cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. For best texture, enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

The image shows several square slices of a dessert with three distinct layers. The bottom layer is a golden, crumbly crust with a rough texture. The middle layer is a smooth, creamy white filling that looks soft and thick. The top layer is a light golden crumb topping with some powdered sugar sprinkled on it, giving a slightly powdered white look. The dessert pieces are placed on a piece of brown parchment paper with a white marbled texture background. The close-up view highlights the texture and freshness of the dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix instead of yellow?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors like white or butter cake mix, but yellow provides a classic buttery base that complements the lemon filling nicely.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be set and lightly browned, and the center will still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. They will firm up as they cool.