Introduction
Indulge in a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese with the zesty freshness of lemon. These lemon cookie bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a cozy night in. Topped with luscious lemon buttercream frosting and optional sprinkles, these bars are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- Sprinkles (optional)
For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- Yellow food coloring (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling)
Yield: 16 squares
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy in texture.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
To the creamed mixture, add in the large egg, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in the large bowl. Stir the batter gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Spread the Batter
Pour the cookie bar batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the pan.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie bars are lightly golden. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cooling the Bars
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 9: Prepare the Lemon Buttercream Frosting
While the cookie bars are cooling, make the frosting. In a separate bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon extract, and sifted powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If desired, add a few drops of yellow food coloring to achieve your preferred shade.
Step 10: Frosting the Cookie Bars
When the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the lemon buttercream frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
Step 11: Adding Sprinkles
If you choose to use sprinkles, generously sprinkle them over the frosted surface for a decorative touch.
Step 12: Serving
Cut the frosted cookie bars into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with additional flavors by adding poppy seeds or using different types of extracts, such as vanilla.
Texture Tip
For a softer texture, avoid overbaking the cookie bars. Check them at the 25-minute mark.
Cook techniques
Whisking Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking these together ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and salt, preventing any clumps.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which incorporates air for a lighter texture in the cookie bars.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, then gradually add the dry ingredients. This gentle mixing prevents overworking the flour, which can lead to dense bars.
Spreading the Batter
Once the batter is made, spread it evenly into the prepared baking pan. Using an offset spatula can help achieve a smooth top and even baking.
Baking
Bake in a preheated oven (350°F) for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges for a golden color, and use a toothpick to check for doneness in the center.
Cooling
After baking, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling period helps set the texture before adding the frosting.
Making Frosting
For the lemon buttercream frosting, beat together the room temperature butter, milk, lemon juice, lemon extract, and sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
Application of Frosting
Once the cookie bars are cool, spread the frosting evenly on top using a spatula or knife. This method ensures an even layer of sweetness.
Decoration
If desired, finish with colorful sprinkles to add a festive touch and extra appeal to your cookie bars.
FAQ
Can I substitute the cream cheese in the cookie bars?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or mascarpone for a different flavor profile, but it may alter the texture slightly.
What can I use instead of lemon extract?
If you don’t have lemon extract, you can use an additional teaspoon of fresh lemon juice or zest to maintain the lemon flavor.
How should I store the cookie bars?
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
Can I freeze the cookie bars?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The cookie bars are done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Conclusion
These delicious lemon cookie bars with cream cheese and lemon buttercream frosting offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to please lemon lovers. Enjoy these soft, chewy treats as a refreshing dessert that combines the brightness of lemon with a smooth, creamy finish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Blueberry Cookie Bars
Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the lemon.
Lemon Almond Cookie Bars
Incorporate almond extract into the batter and sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the frosting for a nutty twist.
Lemon Coconut Cookie Bars
Mix shredded coconut into the cookie batter and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch.
Lemon Raspberry Cookie Bars
Swirl in some raspberry jam before baking to create a beautiful marbled effect and a delightful tartness.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookie Bars
Add poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful crunch and texture that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
Lemon Spice Cookie Bars
Add ground ginger and cinnamon to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced flavor profile that enhances the lemony brightness.
