Strawberry Lemon Shortbread Bars
Strawberry Lemon Shortbread Bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon lemon zest, divided
- 3/4 cup cold butter
- 2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup strawberries pureed
- Garnishes: sweetened whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices
Preheat oven to 350°. Stir together flour, powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp. lemon zest in a medium bowl; cut in butter with a pastry blender until crumbly. Press mixture onto bottom of a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch pan.
Bake at 350° for 20 to 22 minutes or until lightly browned.
Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs, 1 at a time, and beat just until blended after each addition. Stir in fresh lemon juice and remaining 1/4 tsp. lemon zest, beating well.
Spread strawberries over shortbread. Pour cream cheese mixture over strawberries, spreading to edges. Bake 28 to 32 more minutes or until set. Let cool 1 hour on a wire rack. Cover and chill 4 to 8 hours. Cut into bars; garnish, if desired.
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