Lemony Cream Cheese Dessert Bars

These Lemony Cream Cheese Dessert Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. With a buttery crescent roll crust and a rich cream cheese filling infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether served as a dessert or a refreshing snack, they offer a delightful citrus twist that’s sure to please any palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The flaky, golden crescent roll dough creates a satisfying base and topping, while the creamy, lemon-infused filling strikes a perfect balance of tang and sweetness. Whether you’re a fan of lemon desserts or just looking for something light yet indulgent, these bars will quickly become a favorite. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are ideal for making ahead, as they need to chill for a few hours to set. The best part? They can be customized with add-ins like berries or nuts for an extra touch.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, full fat and softened

• 1 tube of crescent roll dough

• 2 lemons, juiced and zested

• ½ cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp butter, unsalted and melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a baking pan with nonstick spray.

3. Divide the crescent roll dough into two halves. Place one half into the pan and press the seams together to form a crust.

4. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, ½ cup sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough in the pan.

6. Take the second half of the dough and place it on top of the cream cheese filling. Press the seams together and stretch it to fit if necessary.

7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dough turns golden brown.

8. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, brush it to cover, and sprinkle with the remaining sugar.

9. Allow the bars to cool down, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

10. Slice and enjoy your Lemony Cream Cheese Dessert Bars!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars (depending on how large you slice them)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Refrigeration Time: 6 hours minimum, or overnight for best results

Variations

• Berry Add-ins: You can stir in some fresh berries (such as blueberries or raspberries) into the cream cheese mixture for a fruity twist.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the regular crescent roll dough with a gluten-free puff pastry or crescent roll dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Add chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) or even chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture to change up the flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

• Freezing: These bars can be made ahead and frozen. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer, you can gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but it might result in a slightly different texture and flavor compared to full-fat cream cheese. Full-fat cream cheese gives a richer and creamier result.

What can I use if I don’t have crescent roll dough?

If you don’t have crescent roll dough, puff pastry can be used as a substitute. Roll it out to fit the pan and follow the recipe as instructed.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

While fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor, you can substitute bottled lemon juice. However, the flavor might not be as vibrant as fresh lemons.

Do I need to refrigerate these bars for the full 6 hours?

Yes, refrigerating the bars for at least 6 hours is recommended for the best texture and flavor. You can refrigerate them overnight if needed.

Can I add other ingredients like berries or nuts to the cream cheese mixture?

Yes, you can customize the cream cheese mixture by adding berries, nuts, or even chocolate chips. Just be mindful that extra ingredients may slightly affect the texture and baking time.

What size baking pan should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking pan works best for this recipe. If you use a different size, it may alter the thickness and baking time of the bars.

Can I make these bars ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can prepare the bars ahead of time and freeze them. Be sure to let them cool completely, then wrap them well before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

What can I substitute for the lemon zest if I don’t have fresh lemons?

If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use lemon extract or pre-zested lemon from a jar. The flavor might be a bit different but still enjoyable.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a dairy-free buttery spread in place of the butter.

Can I use a different type of citrus fruit?

If you’re not a fan of lemon, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lime, orange, or grapefruit. Just adjust the quantity according to your preference.

Conclusion

Lemony Cream Cheese Dessert Bars are a delightful and easy treat, perfect for any occasion. The buttery crescent roll dough provides a satisfying crust while the smooth cream cheese and lemon filling brings a tangy, refreshing flavor. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert or snack, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!