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Creamy Lemon Dream Bars

Creamy Lemon Dream Bars

Buttery shortbread crust topped with a silky, tangy lemon-cream filling. Cool, creamy, and bright in every bite.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 38 minutes
Total Time: 58 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.6 cup powdered sugar for the crust
  • 0.25 tsp fine salt
  • 1.5 tbsp grated lemon zest divided between crust and filling
  • 0.88 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into small cubes
  • 12 oz cream cheese softened
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice preferably freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar for dusting
  • 1 cup heavy cream whipped, optional

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang; lightly grease.
  • Whisk flour, powdered sugar, salt, and about 1 tsp lemon zest in a large bowl.
  • Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until sandy and clumping.
  • Press crumbs firmly into the pan in an even layer. Dock lightly with a fork.
  • Bake the crust 15–18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Leave oven on.
  • Beat cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy, 1–2 minutes.
  • Blend in sweetened condensed milk until silky and no lumps remain.
  • Whisk cornstarch into lemon juice until dissolved. Add to bowl with remaining zest and vanilla; mix until smooth.
  • Pour filling over the hot crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake 18–22 minutes, until the center has a slight jiggle and edges look set.
  • Cool in the pan 1 hour, then refrigerate at least 2 hours until firm.
  • Dust with powdered sugar. Slice into bars and top with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Variation: Swirl 2–3 tablespoons lemon curd into the filling before baking for extra tang. For a coconut twist, replace 1/2 cup flour in the crust with fine unsweetened shredded coconut. Storage: Keep bars chilled in an airtight container for up to 4 days; freeze, well wrapped, for up to 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Creamy Lemon Dream Bars flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.