Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combine the sweetness of sugar cookies with a refreshing lemon flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a unique twist on traditional cookie recipes. With their soft and chewy texture, they are sure to impress family and friends at gatherings, parties, or just as a sweet snack at home. The zesty lemon filling adds brightness, making them an ideal dessert for spring and summer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest gives these cookie bars a bright and zesty taste that is irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or family gathering, Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars fit right in.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm out of the oven or chilled for a refreshing treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: These bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make the process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures that your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: These tools make it easy to cream butter and sugar together quickly, achieving the perfect texture.
• Baking Dish: A square baking dish is ideal for achieving even cooking, ensuring your bars are baked consistently throughout.
• Rubber Spatula: This tool helps in scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are mixed well.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars:

• 1 Cup granulated sugar
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Cup butter (at room temperature)
• 2 Cups all purpose flour
• 8 Ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 1/4 Cup lemon juice
• 2 Tablespoons lemon zest (divided)
• 1/2 Cup sugar

How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking dish with foil. Spray it liberally with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer using the paddle attachment or in a large bowl with a hand mixer:
1. Beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed for about 2 minutes until creamy.
2. Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until the dough comes together.
3. Press half of this dough into your prepared pan evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until lightly golden brown. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl (using either your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer):
1. Beat together cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the lemon filling over your cooled crust.
1. Crumble the remaining cookie dough evenly over the top of the filling.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return your dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the cookie crumble is light golden in color.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, sprinkle any remaining lemon zest on top as desired before allowing it to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy making these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars! They are sure to brighten up any day!

How to Serve Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the bars with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the lemon.

Drizzled with Icing

• A simple lemon icing can elevate the flavor. Just mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzle it over the cooled bars for an extra zing.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast to the chewy cookie base. This makes for a lovely presentation and taste.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Pair these bars with a cup of tea or coffee. The citrus notes in the dessert blend beautifully with both beverages, making for a refreshing snack.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies or cheesecake bites. This way, you can offer a variety of flavors to your guests.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• For an elegant touch, garnish each bar with fresh mint leaves. This adds color and an aromatic element that enhances the overall experience.

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How to Perfect Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Perfecting your Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly for a creamy filling.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Chill before baking: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan. This can help maintain their shape while baking.
• Check doneness visually: Look for light golden edges and slightly soft centers to know when they are ready. They will continue to set as they cool.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are versatile and can be paired with several delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the citrus flavor of the bars.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits in small glasses for a light, refreshing option alongside your sweet bars.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer a variety of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese which balance well with sweet desserts.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon flavor.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies provide another texture contrast while enhancing the tropical feel alongside lemon flavors.
7. Lemon Sorbet: For an extra citrus kick, serve lemon sorbet as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
8. Chilled Sparkling Water: Infuse sparkling water with slices of lemon or cucumber for a refreshing drink alongside your dessert.

These side dishes will enhance your experience of enjoying Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars even more!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to uneven mixing. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Skipping the cooling time: Filling the crust while it’s still warm may cause the filling to melt and mix with the dough. Always cool completely before adding the filling.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your bars tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Ensure your oven is correctly calibrated. An inaccurate temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked bars.
• Ignoring zest and juice ratios: Too much lemon juice or zest can overpower the sweetness. Follow the recipe closely for balanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat bars on low power in 15-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars?

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are a delicious dessert combining a buttery cookie base with a creamy lemon filling, topped with crumbled cookie dough.

How do I know when my Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are done?

The top should be light golden brown, and you can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.

Can I customize my Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! You can add poppy seeds for texture or use different citrus fruits like lime or orange for variation.

How long do Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars take to make?

The total time is approximately 80 minutes, including prep and bake time.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can adapt them by adding flavors like coconut or nuts. Their sweet and tangy taste makes them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat!