Do you ever find yourself craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors? Look no further than these delightful Butter Crunch Lemon Cheese Bars. With a buttery crunch base topped with a luscious layer of lemony cream cheese, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply treating yourself to a cozy afternoon indulgence.
**Butter Crunch Lemon Cheese Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed butter crunch candy bars (such as Heath bars)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the mixture comes together and resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. While the crust is cooling, in another bowl, beat the cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture over the slightly cooled crust.
6. Sprinkle the crushed butter crunch candy bars evenly over the cream cheese layer.
7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
8. Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set.
9. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve these delightful Butter Crunch Lemon Cheese Bars chilled.
These Butter Crunch Lemon Cheese Bars are a true delight for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for citrusy treats. Their creamy texture combined with the crunchy buttery topping creates a symphony of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to satisfy your dessert cravings, these bars are a perfect choice. Enjoy the refreshing burst of lemon and the decadent richness of the cream cheese in every delightful bite!
