Description
Creamy lemon delight cream cheese bars blend tangy citrus with rich, velvety layers of pure dessert magic. Cool, zesty goodness meets sweet indulgence, promising a delectable escape that lingers on your palate with each irresistible bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 (8 ounces / 226 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 (8 ounces / 226 grams) packages refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 lemons (zested and juiced, divided)
Sweeteners and Sugars:
- 0.5 cup white sugar
- 3 tablespoons white sugar for topping
Fats and Preparation Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Cooking spray for preparing the pan
- Reserved lemon zest from 1.5 lemons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with aluminum foil and coating thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Carefully unroll the first package of crescent roll dough, pressing it gently into the bottom of the prepared dish, ensuring an even and smooth foundation that covers the entire surface.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with sugar, incorporating fresh lemon zest and juice until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no visible lumps.
- Spread the lemon-infused cream cheese mixture evenly across the crescent roll base, creating a uniform layer that reaches all edges of the dish.
- Delicately drape the second package of crescent roll dough over the cream cheese filling, gently stretching to cover the entire surface without disturbing the underlying layer.
- Melt butter and brush generously across the top layer of dough, then sprinkle the remaining lemon zest mixed with sugar to create a crisp, aromatic topping.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown color and firm edges that indicate complete cooking.
- Remove from the oven and allow the dessert to cool at room temperature for 20 minutes, then carefully lift out using the foil edges.
- Slice into neat squares and refrigerate for at least one hour to set completely, enhancing the texture and allowing flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Prep ahead by having all ingredients at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Use fresh lemons for the most vibrant and zesty flavor profile that elevates the entire dessert.
- Ensure crescent roll dough is stretched gently to create an even base without tearing or creating holes.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting to achieve clean, precise square slices that hold their shape.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and taste.
- Line the baking dish with foil for easy removal and hassle-free cleanup after baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 199
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 29 mg