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Lemon Cream Cheese Bars

Deliciously bright and buttery squares of lemon cream cheese bars with a flaky crust, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 9 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust and topping
  • 1 pack pack of crescent roll dough Use refrigerated crescent roll dough.
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted Use unsalted butter for better control over salt.
  • 2 tbsp sugar (for topping) Sprinkle on top for added crunch.
For the filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • 1 cup sugar Balances the lemon and keeps the filling silky.
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest Add for extra citrus aroma.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
  2. Roll out half of the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the greased dish.
  3. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the cup of sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
  5. Roll out the other half of the crescent roll dough and lay it over the filling, sealing the edges.
Baking
  1. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar over it.
  2. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.
  3. Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

For a flavor variation, add a splash of vanilla or substitute lemon zest with orange zest. Try folding in berries for a fruity twist.