Go Back

Sugar Cookie Lemon Bars

A delightful dessert combining a sweet sugar cookie crust with a tangy lemon filling, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust Ingredients
  • 1 package sugar cookie mix (17.5 ounces) An easy start to baking bliss.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Just a pinch to enhance that sweet goodness.
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 package cream cheese, room temperature (8 ounces) Creates that creamy, dreamy filling.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Brings the sweetness to our lemony treat.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour Helps everything come together nicely.
  • 3/4 cup frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed A splash of summer's magic.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Because vanilla makes everything better!
  • 1 box instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 ounces) For that lemony punch without the fuss.
  • 1 large egg, room temperature Gives the filling that perfect texture.
Topping
  • 1 cup whipped cream Optional, for topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, softened butter, and kosher salt. Use a fork to mix until crumbly.
  3. Set aside 1/2 cup of the crumb mixture for topping.
  4. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Filling
  1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth.
  2. Add in the flour, thawed lemonade concentrate, vanilla extract, pudding mix, and egg. Mix until just combined.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the lemonade filling over the crust and gently spread it to the edges.
  4. Sprinkle the reserved crumble evenly over the top.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set.
  2. Let it cool in the pan for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Serving
  1. Slice and serve chilled, topping with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Time-saving tip: Use a store-bought sugar cookie mix. For a flavor variation, try adding lemon zest or coconut.