Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars

Description:
These Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic lemon cream pie, offering a refreshing and tangy dessert that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth lemon-infused cream cheese filling, and a dollop of whipped cream on top, these bars are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual family gathering or a special celebration.​

🍋 Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted​

For the filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

• Zest of 1 lemon​

For the topping:

• Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)​

⏱️ Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Chill Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes​

🍽️ Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.​

2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.​

3. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined and smooth.​

4. Assemble: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.​

5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the center is set.​

6. Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set properly.​

7. Serve: Before serving, top each bar with a generous dollop of whipped cream.​

🔄 Variations

• Berry Lemon Bars: Top with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for added flavor and color.

• Coconut Lemon Bars: Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut to the crust mixture for a tropical twist.​

• Chocolate Lemon Bars: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top before serving.​

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.​

🍽️ Serving Tips

• Presentation: Cut into squares and serve on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.​

• Pairing: These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of iced tea or lemonade.​

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​

❓ FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

   • Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.​

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

   • Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.​

3. Can I freeze these bars?

   • Yes, freeze them without the whipped cream topping. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.​

4. Can I use a different type of crust?

   • Yes, you can use a shortbread or vanilla wafer crust as an alternative.​

5. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

   • The center should be set and not jiggle when gently shaken.​

6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

   • Yes, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.​

7. Can I add more lemon zest?

   • Yes, adjust to your taste preference.​

8. Can I use a different citrus fruit?

   • Yes, lime or orange juice and zest can be used for a different flavor profile.​

9. How should I cut the bars?

   • Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts.

10. Can I make these bars without baking?

    • This recipe requires baking to set the filling.

11. Can I use a different sweetener?

    • Honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives to granulated sugar.

12. How can I make the crust more flavorful?

    • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture.

13. Can I use a different topping?

    • A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze can be used as alternatives.

14. Can I use a different pan size?

    • Adjust the baking time if using a different pan size to ensure the bars are set.

15. Can I add nuts to the crust?

    • Yes, finely chopped almonds or pecans can be added for added texture.

16. Can I use a store-bought crust?

    • Yes, a store-bought graham cracker crust can be used to save time.