Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
Introduction
If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert that’s easy to make, look no further than Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars. These delightful treats combine the tartness of lemon with a creamy filling, all sitting on a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for any gathering or just a sweet snack at home, these bars will surely brighten your day!
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons to make Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars! First, they are incredibly simple to prepare, making them ideal for any skill level in the kitchen. Second, their zesty flavor is a perfect match for warm weather. Plus, you can prepare them ahead of time and let them chill in the fridge. This means less stress when you have guests over! Everyone will love the cool and creamy taste that brings a smile to their faces.
How to Make Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
Making these lemon cream pie bars is a breeze. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup whipped cream
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Fold in the whipped cream until it’s all mixed together.
- Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
When it’s time to serve, cut the bars into squares. You can add a dollop of whipped cream on top or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flair. These bars are best enjoyed cold, making them a fantastic dessert during warm weather!
How to Store Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
To keep your lazy day lemon cream pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them chilled!
Tips to Make Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip the chilling time! It helps the bars set properly for a lovely texture.
- For added flavor, you can top the bars with berries like raspberries or blueberries.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try using lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a delicious twist! You can also mix in some shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes, store-bought whipped cream works just fine! Just be sure to get a quality brand for the best results.
2. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They should last up to 3 months in the freezer.
3. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
You can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafer cookies, or even shortbread cookies as a substitute for graham cracker crumbs.
Now you have everything you need to whip up these delightful Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars. Enjoy the zesty goodness!
Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter for binding the crust
- 2 tablespoons sugar to sweeten the crust
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened make sure it's at room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed if possible
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest for added flavor
- 1 cup whipped cream store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Fold in the whipped cream until it’s all mixed together.
- Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Serving
- Cut the bars into squares. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream on top or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
