Description
Bright, zesty, and buttery, these *Lemon Gooey Bars* are the ultimate dessert for citrus lovers. With a golden cake mix base, luscious cream cheese and lemon filling, and a sweet glaze on top, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast treat, an easy dessert idea, or a refreshing snack. Whether you’re baking for brunch, holidays, or just because, these bars are a crowd-pleaser packed with flavor and texture. Ideal for spring and summer, and perfect for anyone searching for easy recipes or bright food ideas!
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Mix well, then press evenly into prepared dish.
3. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 2 eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla. Mix until fully combined.
4. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until the filling is smooth and creamy.
5. Pour filling over the base and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool completely, then garnish with lemon slices or powdered sugar.
8. Chill before slicing and serving for cleaner cuts.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
Don’t overbake! The center should still be a little jiggly.
For neat slices, chill the bars fully before cutting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 298
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: lemon gooey bars, lemon desserts, easy dessert bars, citrus recipes, cake mix recipes