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Creamy Lemon Bars

These creamy lemon bars feature a silky dessert with a tangy citrus filling and a sweet graham cracker crust.

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. Whisk together the graham cracker crumbs and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a medium bowl.
  3. Add the melted butter and stir until combined.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
  6. Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
  7. Add the Greek yogurt and mix until smooth.
  8. Incorporate the eggs and egg yolk, mixing until just blended.
  9. Add the sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, then beat until glossy.
  10. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  11. Bake for 34 to 38 minutes until set at the edges but jiggly in the center.
  12. Cool the pan on a rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours to fully set.
  13. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan and cut into squares before serving.

Notes

Chill the bars for clean slices and the best texture. Enjoy with a citrusy drink.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon bars, creamy dessert, spring recipe, citrus dessert