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Homemade Lemon Bars with Cake Mix recipe photo

Lemon Bars with Cake Mix

These Lemon Bars with Cake Mix are SO EASY! Bright, zesty lemon flavor combined with a creamy filling for the perfect dessert!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:
  • 1 box lemon cake mix
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup butter melted
For the Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Powdered sugar for sprinkling

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles a thick dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
  2. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 beaten eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps for a velvety filling.
  3. Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
  4. Once baked, remove the lemon bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a lovely presentation.

Notes

  • Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Experiment with different cake mix flavors for unique variations.