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Creamy Vanilla Almond Lemon Bars

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These creamy vanilla almond lemon bars combine a nutty almond crust with a velvety vanilla cream layer and a zesty lemon topping, creating a perfect balance of comforting and refreshing flavors in an easy-to-make dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (can substitute coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Make the almond crust: In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until evenly moistened and mixture holds together when pressed.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden and almond aroma is noticeable.
  4. While crust bakes, prepare the creamy vanilla filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Spread the creamy vanilla mixture evenly over the warm crust. Return to oven and bake for 10 minutes to set slightly.
  6. Prepare the zesty lemon layer: Whisk eggs and granulated sugar until combined and slightly frothy. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour. Whisk until smooth with no lumps.
  7. Pour the lemon mixture gently over the baked cream cheese layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes until lemon layer is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld and layers firm up.
  9. Slice into 12 bars using a sharp knife, wiping or dipping the knife in hot water between slices for clean cuts.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the lemon layer to prevent cracks. Fresh lemon juice and zest are recommended for best flavor. Chill bars thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts. Variations include gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and berry additions.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon bars, almond crust, vanilla cream, zesty lemon, easy dessert, gluten-free option, dairy-free option, creamy lemon bars

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/creamy-vanilla-almond-lemon-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-zesty-dessert/