Creating Lemon Cream Cheese Bars is made easy with the following straightforward steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Make the Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
5. Add Flavors: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
6. Combine Layers: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Cool: Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1-2 hours.
9. Slice and Serve: Once chilled and set, slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll have beautifully crafted Lemon Cream Cheese Bars ready to enjoy!