Key Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping

For the Lemon Layer:

• 2 cups lemon pie filling (store-bought or homemade)

For Topping:

• Whipped cream
• Lemon slices (for garnish)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Tools Needed

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Hand or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure your bars come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and everything comes together.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, making sure it covers the base evenly to form a solid crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar with a mixer until smooth and creamy.

Then, fold in the whipped topping until it’s completely incorporated. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.

Step 4: Add the Lemon Layer Spoon the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer and spread it out gently, making sure it covers the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake and Chill Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle.

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the layers.

Step 6: Serve Once chilled, cut the bars into squares. Top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream, a fresh slice of lemon, and a light dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the look and flavor. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless & Delicious: This dessert is surprisingly easy to make, with minimal hands-on time required.

Balanced Flavors: The rich cream cheese layer, bright lemon filling, and crunchy graham cracker crust create the perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

No-Bake: With just a little oven time for the crust, this recipe doesn’t require hours of baking, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.