The Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is a sweet and creamy dessert loved by many families. It has a soft cream cheese layer with a fresh lemon flavor that feels light and refreshing.
This recipe is perfect for weekends, gatherings or simple tea time treats. Many people search online for easy lemon desserts and this one always stands out.
If you want a dessert that looks fancy but feels simple, this is a great choice. Today, I will share how to make Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars at home.
My Experience With This Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
I tried this recipe for the first time during a family get-together at home. I wanted something easy but special for everyone.
The lemon smell filled my kitchen while baking, which felt amazing. After cooling, the bars cut perfectly into neat squares.
The texture was soft, creamy and rich without feeling heavy. Everyone enjoyed the balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Since then, I make these bars often for guests and celebrations.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 310 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- 9×13 baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Oven
Ingredients You Need for Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line the baking pan with parchment paper. Mix flour, powdered sugar and butter until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the pan. Bake for fifteen minutes until lightly golden.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar slowly and mix well. Add eggs one at a time and mix gently. Pour in lemon juice and zest. Mix until smooth and bright.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Add flour and baking powder to the lemon mixture. Mix gently until combined. Do not overmix. This keeps the filling soft and light.
4. Bake the Bars
Pour the filling over the warm crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for about twenty-five minutes. The center should look set but soft.
5. Cool and Slice
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool fully. Chill in the fridge for one hour. Cut into clean squares before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
- Let cream cheese reach room temperature
- Do not overbake the bars
- Chill before cutting for neat slices
- Line the pan for easy removal
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbs | 32 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve these lemon cream cheese bars chilled for best taste. You can dust powdered sugar on top for a nice look. They pair well with tea or coffee. These bars also work great for parties and dessert tables.
Best Sides To Serve With
Fresh berries work very well with this dessert. Vanilla ice cream is also a great choice. Light fruit salads balance the creamy texture nicely. A cup of hot green tea pairs perfectly too.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to four days. You do not need reheating. Serve them cold for best texture and flavor.
Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold butter cubed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line the baking pan with parchment paper. Mix flour, powdered sugar and butter until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the pan. Bake for fifteen minutes until lightly golden.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar slowly and mix well. Add eggs one at a time and mix gently. Pour in lemon juice and zest. Mix until smooth and bright.
Add Dry Ingredients
- Add flour and baking powder to the lemon mixture. Mix gently until combined. Do not overmix. This keeps the filling soft and light.
Bake the Bars
- Pour the filling over the warm crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for about twenty-five minutes. The center should look set but soft.
Cool and Slice
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool fully. Chill in the fridge for one hour. Cut into clean squares before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
- Let cream cheese reach room temperature
- Do not overbake the bars
- Chill before cutting for neat slices
- Line the pan for easy removal
FAQs about Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is better because it gives a brighter and fresher taste. Bottled juice may taste dull and less natural.
Can I freeze these lemon cream cheese bars?
Yes, you can freeze them after cooling completely. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge.
Why did my bars crack on top?
Cracks happen when bars are overbaked or mixed too much. Bake until just set and mix gently.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making one day before serving. Chilling improves the flavor and texture.
Conclusion
The Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is easy, creamy and full of fresh lemon flavor. It is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers. With simple ingredients and clear steps, anyone can make it at home.
If you are looking for how to make Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars, this recipe is a great choice. Try it once and it may become your favorite lemon dessert.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
