Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (192g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
  • ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) cold water
  • 16 ounces (454g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 teaspoons (10ml) lemon zest, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Whisk egg yolk and water; add to dry ingredients and mix until combined. Press into baking pan. Chill for 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prick chilled crust with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs, then stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix in flour until combined.
  4. Pour filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until set and slightly golden. The center should have a slight jiggle.
  5. Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
  6. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices (optional). Cut into squares and serve these perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Bars.