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Lemon sugar cookie bars topped with a light glaze and garnished with lemon zest

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Delightful lemon-flavored cookie bars with a creamy filling, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cookie base
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the cream cheese filling
  • 2 packages cream cheese (8 oz each), softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice Use fresh for best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the sugar and butter until creamy. Add in the egg and lemon zest, and mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
  4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
Filling
  1. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
  3. Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the filling is set.
  4. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.

Notes

These bars are best served chilled and can be topped with powdered sugar or lemon zest. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if desired. For added texture, mix lemon zest into the cream cheese filling.