Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a delightful and effortless dessert that combines the tangy zest of lemons with a creamy filling, all atop a buttery crust. Perfect for those moments when I crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these bars offer a refreshing citrus flavor that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers a luscious, lemony dessert with minimal effort. The combination of a soft, buttery crust and a creamy, tangy filling creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply when I want to treat myself to a homemade delight without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 egg
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

Preheat Oven: I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, I combine the lemon cake mix, one egg, and melted butter until the mixture is crumbly. I then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
Make the Filling: In another bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. I add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining egg, mixing until the filling is creamy and well combined.
Assemble: I pour the lemon filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake: I bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool and Serve: After removing from the oven, I let the bars cool completely. For best results, I refrigerate them for at least an hour before slicing. Before serving, I sometimes dust the top with powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 12 bars
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes (including cooling)

Variations

Crust Alternatives: Instead of using a lemon cake mix, I sometimes opt for a graham cracker crust for a different texture and flavor. citeturn0search12
Citrus Twists: For a different citrus flavor, I substitute lime juice and zest for the lemon, creating delightful lime cream pie bars.
Topping Ideas: Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top enhances the flavor and presentation.
Berry Addition: Incorporating fresh raspberries or blueberries into the filling adds a fruity twist and complements the lemon flavor beautifully.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These bars are best enjoyed chilled, so I serve them straight from the fridge. If I want to freeze them, I wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While bottled lemon juice is convenient, I find that fresh lemon juice provides a brighter and more authentic flavor. Fresh zest also adds a depth of flavor that bottled juice can’t replicate.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars before serving?

Yes, refrigerating the bars helps set the filling properly, making them easier to slice and enhancing their creamy texture.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare these bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This makes them a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. The filling will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling the recipe is straightforward. I use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed, ensuring the filling sets properly.

Conclusion

Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a testament to the fact that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With their creamy filling, zesty lemon flavor, and buttery crust, these bars are sure to become a favorite in any dessert repertoire. Whether I’m making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, they never disappoint.