Description Bright, creamy, and refreshingly simple, these Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Combining a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a tangy lemon filling, these bars are easy to make and utterly irresistible. Ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or a simple dessert to brighten your day, these bars are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
For the Lemon Layer:
- 2 cups lemon pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
For Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures the crust bakes evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Step 3: Press the Crust into the Dish
Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create a compact and even crust layer.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for the best texture.
Step 5: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the whipped topping until it is fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping.
Step 6: Spread Cream Cheese Layer
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. This layer adds a delightful creamy contrast to the tangy lemon.
Step 7: Add the Lemon Layer
Pour the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-baking.
Step 9: Cool
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. This allows the layers to settle and prevents the bars from falling apart when chilled.
Step 10: Chill
Refrigerate the lemon cream pie bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set completely. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency and flavor.
Step 11: Garnish
Before serving, cut the bars into squares. Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream, a thin slice of lemon, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Step 12: Serve
Enjoy these bright and creamy lemon pie bars on a lazy day! They are best served chilled and make a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a sturdy base, while the creamy cream cheese layer adds a smooth, rich element. The tangy lemon filling provides a burst of citrusy brightness that perfectly complements the other layers. The simplicity of the recipe means you can whip up a batch in no time, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or a quick dessert fix. They are refreshing, easy to make, and utterly delicious!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert on a warm day.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Offer alongside fresh berries for a colorful and flavorful presentation.
- Serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Tips
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer.
- Even Crust: Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly into the baking dish to prevent it from crumbling.
- Homemade Lemon Filling: For an extra touch, use homemade lemon pie filling instead of store-bought.
- Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process. The longer the bars chill, the better they will set and the easier they will be to cut.
- Garnish Creativity: Feel free to get creative with your garnishes. Consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few fresh mint leaves for added flavor and visual appeal.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
2 hours 45 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 350 per bar
Protein: 4 grams
Sodium: 200 mg
Conclusion
These Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a simple yet satisfying dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With their bright, creamy, and tangy flavors, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The easy-to-follow recipe makes them a great option for beginner bakers, and the delicious results will impress even the most discerning palates. So go ahead, whip up a batch and enjoy a little slice of sunshine on a lazy day!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use a different type of crust, such as a shortbread crust, instead of graham crackers?
A: Yes, you can definitely experiment with different crusts! A shortbread crust would add a buttery and slightly crumbly texture that complements the creamy and tangy filling. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as shortbread crusts may require a slightly longer baking time to achieve a golden-brown color. You could also use a gluten-free graham cracker crust if needed.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have whipped topping on hand?
A: If you don’t have whipped topping, you can make your own stabilized whipped cream. To do this, whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and a touch of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. For stabilization, you can add a small amount of gelatin (bloom gelatin in cold water and then melt it before adding to the cream) or cream cheese. This homemade version will provide a similar light and airy texture to the cream cheese layer.
Q3: How can I make my own lemon pie filling if I don’t want to use store-bought?
A: Making your own lemon pie filling is a great way to customize the flavor and ensure you’re using fresh ingredients. To make it, you’ll need lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, cornstarch (as a thickener), butter, and eggs. Start by whisking together the sugar and cornstarch, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until it’s melted and smooth. Let the filling cool slightly before using it in the recipe.
Q4: Can I freeze these lemon cream pie bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these bars, but it’s essential to wrap them properly to prevent freezer burn. Cut the cooled bars into individual squares, then wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator for several hours before adding the whipped cream, lemon slices, and powdered sugar. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the cream cheese layer, but they will still be delicious.
Q5: How do I prevent the graham cracker crust from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the graham cracker crust from getting soggy, there are a few tricks you can try. First, make sure to press the crust firmly and evenly into the baking dish. This helps create a more compact layer that is less likely to absorb moisture. Secondly, you can pre-bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes before adding the cream cheese and lemon layers. This helps to crisp up the crust and create a moisture barrier. Lastly, avoid adding the lemon filling while it’s still hot; let it cool slightly to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the crust.
