Pioneer Woman Lemon Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
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.
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