If you’re craving something sweet and citrusy with just the right amount of creamy indulgence, these Lemon Cream Cheese Bars are your new go-to dessert. Imagine fresh lemon flavor perfectly balanced with creamy, smooth cheese, all wrapped up in flaky crescent roll dough. It’s the kind of treat that feels fancy but is so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. These bars are a total crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or just treating yourself at home. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!
Creamy Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
Imagine fresh lemon flavor perfectly balanced with creamy, smooth cheese, all wrapped up in flaky crescent roll dough.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 lemons, zested and juiced
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil and give it a light spray with cooking spray.
Create the Bottom Layer:
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, making sure it reaches all the edges.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, 3/4 of the lemon zest, softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
Use an electric mixer to blend everything until smooth and creamy.
Spread this mixture evenly over the dough in the baking dish.
Add the Top Layer:
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the cream cheese mixture, again making sure it covers the entire surface.
Brush the top with the melted butter.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the remaining lemon zest with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Sprinkle this lemon-sugar mixture evenly over the top layer of dough.
Bake and Cool:
Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Once baked, let it cool for about 20 minutes.
Chill and Serve:
Lift the bars out of the dish using the foil edges and transfer them to a cutting board.
Cut into squares and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Enjoy your tangy, creamy, and flaky Lemon Cream Cheese Bars!
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