Lemon Bars

Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray 9 x 13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In small bowl combine graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoons melted butter and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press evenly into baking dish.

Step 2

Melt 4 tablespoons butter and allow to cool for 5 minutes. In medium microwavable bowl combine 1/2 cup sugar and egg yolks until smooth. Whisk in lemon juice, lemon zest and melted butter. Microwave in one minute intervals, stirring after each minute until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Curd will thicken more as it cools.

Step 3

In stand mixer with paddle attachment mix 1/2 cup sugar and cream cheese until smooth. Turn mixer to low; add lemon juice and 1 egg at a time mixing just until incorporated. Pour cream cheese mixture over graham cracker crust.

Step 4

Using lemon curd make three lines the length of the baking dish going all the way to the edge. Using a shish kabeb stick or chop sticks make small S’s through each line. Don’t go too deep as you do not want to disturb the crust. Bake 35-40 minutes or until set in the center.

Step 5

Cool completely before slicing.  For best results refrigerate for several hours up to overnight.