Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars: Easy, Bright, and Irresistibly Creamy
Some days call for desserts that feel like sunshine but require zero fuss. Enter: Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars—the perfect no-stress treat with all the tangy, creamy indulgence of lemon pie, tucked into a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are a dreamy combo of cheesecake smoothness and zesty lemon flavor, made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- No Fancy Tools Needed: Just a bowl, a whisk, and a baking pan—easy cleanup guaranteed.
- Perfectly Tangy & Sweet: Cream cheese and lemon come together for that ideal balance of brightness and richness.
- Great Make-Ahead Dessert: Chill them overnight and they’re even better the next day.
- Small-Batch Friendly: Perfect for a weeknight treat or a cozy weekend dessert for you and a few lucky friends.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Cream Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prep the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until lightly golden. Let cool while you prep the filling.
2. Mix the Cream Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk (or mix with a hand mixer) until everything is silky and well blended.
3. Bake & Chill
Pour the lemon cream filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 15–18 minutes—just until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until completely chilled.
4. Slice & Serve
Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy!
Pro Tips
- Extra Zesty? Add a bit more lemon zest for a stronger citrus kick.
- Short on Time? Pop them in the freezer for 45 minutes to chill faster.
- Make It Yours: Try a crushed vanilla wafer or digestive biscuit base instead of graham crackers for a fun twist.
Whether you're baking to brighten a rainy day or want an effortless dessert to round out dinner, these Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are pure joy in every bite. Fresh, cool, and citrusy—exactly what lazy dessert dreams are made of.
