Print

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 4 reviews

These Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars combine a buttery sugar cookie crust with a creamy, tangy lemon cream cheese filling, topped with a delicate lemony crumble. Perfect for a delightful dessert or afternoon treat with a refreshing citrus twist.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup butter, at room temperature
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish by lining an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan with foil. Spray the foil generously with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal.
  2. Make the dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or in a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat the butter, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed for 2 minutes until creamy and fluffy. Reduce speed to low and gradually add the flour, half a cup at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together.
  3. Form the crust: Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base crust. Bake this layer for 25-30 minutes until it turns lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
  4. Prepare the filling: While the crust cools, in a separate bowl using a stand or hand mixer, beat the cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Assemble the bars: Pour the lemon cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled cookie crust. Then crumble the remaining half of the cookie dough evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  6. Bake the assembled bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the crumble topping is a light golden color.
  7. Finish and serve: Once baked, remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of lemon zest over the top for an extra burst of citrus aroma and flavor. Allow bars to cool before slicing into 9 servings.

Notes

  • Make sure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to ensure easy mixing and a smooth filling.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor impact.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and keep their shape.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/lemon-sugar-cookie-bars-recipe/