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Creamy Lemon Bars

These creamy lemon bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy lemon filling, perfect for spring gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup plain nonfat or low-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional for garnish: lemon slices and fresh blueberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the crust: Whisk the graham cracker crumbs and 1 tablespoon sugar, then add the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the pan and bake for 8 minutes.
  3. Make the filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add Greek yogurt, eggs, additional yolk, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until glossy.
  4. Assemble and bake: Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top. Bake for 34 to 38 minutes until edges set with a jiggle in the center.
  5. Cool: Remove from the oven and cool on a rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Serve: Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment, cut into slices, and garnish with lemon slices and blueberries if desired.

Notes

For best results, chill fully before cutting for clean slices. Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon bars, dessert, creamy dessert, spring dessert, easy dessert