Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s bursting with bright flavor but remains wonderfully creamy and refreshing, then you absolutely must try this Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe. It’s a delightful treat combining a crunchy graham cracker crust with a luscious, tangy lemon cream filling that’s perfectly balanced by sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream. This dessert feels like sunshine on a plate and is incredibly easy to make, making it your go-to when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe has a vital role, blending simple pantry staples with fresh citrus zing to create a harmonious texture and flavor explosion. From the buttery crust to the silky filling, every component is essential for that perfect bite.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Offers a sweet, crunchy base that holds everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart lemon.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust while adding richness and flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, smooth texture for the filling with a subtle tang.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens the filling and adds creamy density.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons): Provides fresh, vibrant acidity that defines the dessert’s signature flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with aromatic oils from the peel.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and a hint of warmth to the filling.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, whipped: Lightens the filling, making it fluffy and delightfully smooth.
How to Make Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by combining the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix everything thoroughly so that the crumbs are completely coated with butter, which helps the crust set firmly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking dish—packing it tightly with the back of a spoon to form a sturdy base. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you move on to the filling.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy, without any lumps. Next, add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat all these ingredients together until smooth and fully combined, ensuring every bite will be bursting with that iconic lemon flavor.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this ensures the filling has a light, airy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture, being careful not to deflate it. This step is key to keeping your bars creamy and soft rather than dense or heavy.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour and spread the lemon cream filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the top so it looks beautiful and uniform. This will make slicing later a breeze and give you that picture-perfect presentation.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Refrigerate the assembled lemon cream pie bars for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This resting period allows the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld, giving you that clean, firm bar texture you want when you slice into it.
Step 6: Serve
Once the bars have chilled and set, cut them into squares and serve. For an extra special touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a dollop of whipped cream. These little additions amp up the citrusy appeal and make every bite even more irresistible.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh lemon zest, thin lemon slices, or a swirl of whipped cream can elevate your Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe to the next level. These touches bring extra brightness and a lovely visual contrast that make the bars look as amazing as they taste.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out your dessert experience, these bars are wonderfully complemented by fresh berries or a light mint sprig. Their natural sweetness and freshness balance the rich lemon cream perfectly, making your dessert plate a feast for both eyes and palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bars on a decorative platter sprinkled with crushed graham crackers or powdered sugar for that bakery-style look. Or layer them in a glass trifle dish with lemon curd and extra whipped cream for a stunning presentation that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the bars fresh and ensures the creamy filling maintains its perfect texture without drying out the crust.
Freezing
You can freeze the bars for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight so they retain their creamy consistency and delicious flavor.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply remove them from the fridge a few minutes before serving to take the chill off, allowing the flavors to come forward beautifully without losing their texture.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for this Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe to achieve the brightest, freshest flavor and best texture.
Is it possible to make the crust gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. Just be sure to check the sugar content and adjust the sweetness if needed.
How long does it take to set properly?
For the best texture, allow the bars to chill and set for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling is even better, giving the flavors time to meld and the filling to firm up nicely.
Can I make these bars vegan?
This recipe relies on cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream, which aren’t vegan. However, you could experiment with vegan cream cheese, coconut condensed milk, and coconut cream, keeping in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly.
How can I make the bars more tart or sweeter?
To increase tartness, add a bit more fresh lemon juice or zest. For extra sweetness, gently fold in a touch more sweetened condensed milk or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top when serving.
Final Thoughts
The Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe is truly a dessert that feels like a hug in bar form—creamy, tangy, and satisfyingly sweet. It’s the kind of treat that brightens any day, impresses friends and family, and is incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch how quickly it becomes your new favorite go-to dessert for any occasion.
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Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
Description
These Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, tangy lemon cream filling made with cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, finished with folded whipped cream for a light, creamy texture. Perfectly chilled, they are refreshing and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, whipped
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are fully coated with butter. Press the mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking dish using the back of a spoon. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Lemon Cream Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon cream cheese mixture. Take care to fold gently so that the whipped cream remains airy and light, which gives the filling its creamy texture.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the lemon cream mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set firmly and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once set, slice the bars into squares. Optionally, garnish with extra lemon zest or a dollop of whipped cream before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, chill the bars overnight to allow the filling to fully set.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste for a slightly more or less tart flavor.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoothest mixing and best texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter crust, increase sugar by one tablespoon.
- Store leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
