Lemon Cheese Bars

 

 

Ingredients

• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, divided
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounces)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. With a pastry blender or 2 knives, blend together flour, nuts, butter and 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar till crumbly. Reserve 1/2 cup crumb mixture. Press remaining mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 pan. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 18-20 minutes, just until edges start to turn golden.
2. While crust is baking, combine remaining ingredients and beat until smooth.
3. Remove crust from oven and pour cheese mixture over crust. Crumble reserved flour mixture over top of cheese mixture. Return to oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden. Cool on wire rack, then refrigerate until chilled.
4. For ease in cutting dip knife in hot water after each cut.