Lemon Cream Cheese Squares (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened for a buttery crust.
02 - Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness in the crust.
03 - Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, adds warmth to the crust flavor.
04 - All-purpose flour: 2 cups, for structure in the crust.
05 - Salt: 1/2 tsp, balances flavors in the crust.
06 - Cream cheese: 8 oz package, softened for creamy filling.
07 - Powdered sugar: 1 cup, sweetens and smooths the filling.
08 - Large egg: 1, for binding the filling.
09 - Lemon zest: 2 tbsp, provides bright citrus flavor.
10 - Freshly squeezed lemon juice: 1/4 cup, adds tanginess to the filling.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
03 - Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden. Let cool slightly.
04 - In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until fully combined.
05 - Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled crust. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
06 - Allow the bars to cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes:

01 - These Lemon Cream Cheese Squares feature a buttery crust topped with a creamy, tangy lemon layer. Ideal for gatherings or an everyday treat, these bars are easy to make and full of fresh lemon flavor.