Lemon Gooey Bars

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Bright, buttery, and irresistibly soft, these Lemon Gooey Bars are everything a citrus lover dreams of. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering the perfect balance of tangy lemon zest and rich, gooey sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, baking for a potluck, or just indulging in a little self-care treat, these bars bring sunshine to your plate.

What sets these bars apart is their texture. They have that golden crackly top like a brownie, but the inside stays dense, soft, and custard-like. With a simple cake mix base and a cream cheese filling that’s boosted with real lemon flavor, this dessert feels homemade and nostalgic yet couldn’t be easier to whip up.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Gooey Bars

• Foolproof for beginners: Uses cake mix for a no-fuss base.
• Bright and refreshing: A burst of real lemon in every bite.
• Perfect texture: Crisp edges and a soft, creamy center.
• Crowd-pleaser: A hit at gatherings, brunches, and bake sales.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with berries, coconut, or white chocolate.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting prepped is easy, and a few kitchen tools will help you achieve the best results:

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining the base and cream cheese filling separately.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Crucial for beating the cream cheese to a smooth, airy texture.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ensures even baking and the perfect bar thickness.
• Offset Spatula: Makes spreading the gooey top layer a breeze.
• Zester: Helps release vibrant citrus oils for the most fragrant lemon flavor.
• Cooling Rack: Prevents overbaking by allowing bars to cool evenly.

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Ingredients for the Lemon Gooey Bars

• Yellow Cake Mix: Forms the sweet and sturdy base layer.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the crust.
• Eggs: Needed for both the crust and the creamy filling.
• Cream Cheese: The heart of the gooey layer, lending tang and creaminess.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and firms up the cream cheese layer.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Infuses the bars with bright citrus punch.
• Lemon Zest: Adds depth and fresh aroma to the flavor profile.

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How To Make the Lemon Gooey Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Combine the yellow cake mix, one egg, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is crumbly yet cohesive. Press it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining two eggs, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue to beat until the mixture is silky and lump-free.

Step 3: Layer and Bake

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center remains slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before cutting into squares. For extra flair, garnish with lemon slices or a dusting of powdered sugar.

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How to Serve & Store Lemon Gooey Bars

Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature with a cup of tea, lemonade, or coffee. They’re great as part of a dessert table or tucked into a lunchbox for a sweet midday treat. For storing, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them (cut into individual squares and wrapped) for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a white cake mix instead of yellow?

Yes! White cake mix will yield a slightly lighter flavor but still works beautifully.

Do I need to use fresh lemon juice?

Fresh juice is highly recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking pan (or two) and adjust baking time slightly.

Why is the center still jiggly?

That’s perfect! The center should remain a bit gooey. It sets more as it cools.

Can I add mix-ins like berries?

Yes, blueberries or raspberries are a delicious addition to the filling.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you love these Lemon Gooey Bars, try these next:

• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for fruity decadence.
• Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake when you’re in the mood for a baking surprise.
• Pecan Pie Lasagna for nutty, layered indulgence.
• Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for brunch-style sweetness.
• Brownie Refrigerator Cake for chocolate lovers who love it chilled.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add berries or maybe some glaze on top? Did you make it with white or yellow cake mix?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

For even more easy desserts and lemon treats, follow me on Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart.

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