Introduction
Lemon Ooey Gooey Cake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the rich sweetness of cake. These bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a potluck, or just a cozy night in. The lemony goodness of these bars will surely brighten up your day and satisfy your sweet tooth. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making these delicious Lemon Ooey Gooey Cake Bars, including the ingredients you will need, the steps to follow, variations you can try, helpful tips, and some frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
For the crust:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Zest of 1 lemon
For the filling:
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, granulated sugar, and lemon zest for the crust. Mix until well combined and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until well combined.
4. Add the lemon juice, eggs, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Variations
While the classic Lemon Ooey Gooey Cake Bars are delicious on their own, you can also try adding a twist to this recipe:
– Blueberry Lemon Bars: Sprinkle fresh or frozen blueberries over the cream cheese filling before baking for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
– Coconut Lemon Bars: Mix shredded coconut into the crust mixture for a tropical twist.
– Raspberry Lemon Bars: Swirl raspberry jam into the cream cheese filling before baking for a tangy and sweet combination.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Lemon Ooey Gooey Cake Bars turn out perfect:
– Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling.
– Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice may have a slightly different taste.
– Let the bars cool completely before cutting into them to allow them to set properly.
– Dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Conclusion
Lemon Ooey Gooey Cake Bars are a delightful dessert option that will surely impress your friends and family. With their tangy lemon flavor and gooey texture, these bars are a perfect combination of sweet and tart. Whether you’re a lemon lover or just looking for a new dessert to try, these bars are a must-make. Get ready to indulge in the irresistible lemony goodness of these Lemon Ooey Gooey Cake Bars!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus fruit instead of lemon?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange to create your own unique flavor combination.
Q: Can I freeze the bars for later?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them thaw completely before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of pan?
A: Yes, you can use a different size of baking pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may vary. Adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the bars as they bake.
Q: How long do the bars stay fresh?
A: The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container.
