Description
Zesty Lemon Cream Dream Bars are a decadent, creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese filling swirled with raspberry preserves. These bars are chilled until set, then garnished with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and whipped cream, making them a perfect bright and tangy treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
Garnish
- Fresh raspberries
- Lemon slices
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the bars.
- Create the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined, then press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a solid crust.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then fold in sour cream, all-purpose flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust in the pan. Drop spoonfuls of raspberry preserves on top of the filling. Using a knife, gently swirl the preserves into the cream cheese mixture to create a marbled effect.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly and the edges are lightly browned. Once baked, allow the bars to cool to room temperature.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cooled bars for at least 4 hours to fully set and develop flavor, making them easier to cut into neat bars.
- Garnish & Serve: Before serving, garnish each bar with fresh raspberries, a slice of lemon, and a dollop of whipped cream for an attractive and flavorful presentation.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Do not overbake to prevent cracking; the center should still have a slight jiggle when done.
- Chilling the bars thoroughly helps the flavors meld and makes cutting easier.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Swirling the raspberry preserves creates a beautiful marbled look and balanced tartness.
