Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Need a dessert that delivers max flavor with minimal effort? Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are your answer. These luscious, creamy, lemony bars come together with just a few pantry staples and bring that perfect balance of sweet and tart. Perfect for potlucks, brunches, or when you just need something refreshing and sweet without the fuss of a full pie.

The crust is buttery and crisp, the filling is silky with a vibrant citrus zing, and the whole dessert feels like sunshine on a plate. Let’s dive into this dreamy lemon dessert!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the Lemon Cream Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 4 large egg yolks

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3–4 lemons)

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

• Lemon zest curls or slices

• Whipped cream

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in melted butter and mix until the crumbs are fully coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Pour the lemon cream mixture over the pre-baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up more as it cools.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set completely. Once chilled, lift them out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares or bars.

Variation:

• Coconut Lemon Bars: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the crust or sprinkle on top before baking.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust.

• Berry Swirl: Drop small dollops of raspberry or blueberry jam on top of the filling and swirl gently before baking.

• Extra Tangy: Increase the lemon juice to 2/3 cup and reduce sweetened condensed milk slightly for a more puckery bite.

COOKING Note:

Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor — bottled juice just doesn’t cut it. Zest your lemons before you juice them to make it easier.

Serving Suggestions:

• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

• Top with a swirl of whipped cream and fresh berries for a brunch-worthy presentation.

• Serve chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat on warm days.

Tips:

• For clean-cut bars, use a sharp knife and wipe between each slice.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• These bars also freeze beautifully! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Make the crust extra crispy by baking it a few minutes longer before adding the filling.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes (including crust)

Total Time:

2 hours 40 minutes (with chilling)

Nutritional Information (per bar, approx. based on 9 bars):

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 5g

• Sodium: 160mg

• Carbohydrates: 34g

• Fat: 17g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Fiber: <1g

• Sugar: 26g

FAQs

Q: Can I make these lemon bars ahead of time?
Yes! They’re even better the next day once fully chilled.

Q: Do I need to refrigerate them?
Absolutely. Keep them chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, double everything and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Increase baking time slightly.

Q: Can I make these without eggs?
You can substitute with egg replacers or use cream cheese for a cheesecake-style version, but texture may vary.

Q: Is the filling supposed to jiggle after baking?
Yes, a slight jiggle in the center is normal—it firms up fully as it chills.

Conclusion

Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are proof that incredible desserts don’t need to be complicated. This recipe brings together bright lemon flavor, creamy texture, and a buttery graham crust in a simple, no-fuss way. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or treating yourself to a sweet citrusy bite, these bars deliver the perfect mix of sunshine and sweetness.

Make a batch, slice it up, and savor every creamy, tangy square. 🍋💛

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