Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a simple dessert with a buttery crust, creamy lemon filling, and a bright citrus flavor. They’re a great make-ahead treat for warm days or casual gatherings.
Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed shortbread cookies)
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
Lemon cream filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional topping
- Whipped cream
- Extra lemon zest
- Thin lemon slices
Instructions
- Prepare the crust
- Mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press firmly into an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan.
- Chill for about 20–30 minutes.
- Make the filling
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla.
- Fold in whipped cream until light and creamy.
- Assemble
- Spread the lemon filling over the chilled crust.
- Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve
- Cut into bars and garnish with whipped cream or lemon zest.
Tip: For the strongest fresh lemon flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest from the peel. Keep the bars refrigerated until serving.
