Lemon Bars with Cake Mix

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By Emmy Minucci

Published: Feb 11, 2026

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Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than lemon bars with cake mix. This recipe is a great way to make a tasty and refreshing dessert without having to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic baking skills, you can create a dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses a cake mix as the base, which makes it incredibly easy to prepare. Simply follow the instructions on the cake mix box and add in some additional ingredients to give it a lemon flavor. The result is a dessert that is both tangy and sweet, with a texture that is similar to a lemon bar.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Bars with Cake Mix

There are many reasons why you will love this recipe for lemon bars with cake mix. First, it is incredibly easy to make. The cake mix does all the work for you, so you don’t have to worry about measuring out ingredients or mixing together a complicated batter. Simply add in the additional ingredients, pour the mixture into a pan, and bake until it is golden brown.

Another reason you will love this recipe is that it is very versatile. You can serve it as a dessert, a snack, or even as a breakfast treat. It is also a great recipe to make for a party or special occasion, as it can be easily cut into bars and served to a crowd.

Finally, this recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of lemon. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C and have many health benefits, including boosting your immune system and aiding in digestion. So not only is this dessert delicious, but it is also good for you.

Recipe

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Lemon Bars with Cake Mix

Lemon Bars with Cake Mix


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  • Author: Emmy Minucci
  • Total Time: 47 min
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

A delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15.25-ounce) box lemon cake mix
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup butter, (melted)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 eggs, (beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • powdered sugar, (to sprinkle)

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 pan and turn oven to 350°F
  2. Blend cake mix, 1 egg and butter until smooth. Press into your greased 9×13 pan
  3. Blend cream cheese, 2 eggs, vanilla powdered sugar and lemon zest until creamy and smooth. Spread over your the first mixture in your pan
  4. Bake at 350 for 40-45 minutes or until edges are golden brown (middle may sink in a bit)
  5. Top with powdered sugar and ENJOY!

Notes

  • Make sure to use a high-quality cake mix that is designed for lemon desserts
  • Don’t overmix the batter, as this can cause the dessert to be tough and dense
  • Prep Time: 7 min
  • Cook Time: 40 min
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 287 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 137 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 0.02 g
  • Protein: 3 g

Ingredients and Substitutions

Base Components

The base of this recipe is a lemon cake mix. This is what gives the dessert its flavor and texture. You will also need to add in some additional ingredients, including melted butter, cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar.

If you want to make a substitution in this recipe, you can try using a different type of cake mix. For example, you could use a vanilla or yellow cake mix and add in some lemon zest or lemon juice to give it a lemon flavor.

Sauce and Seasonings

The sauce for this recipe is made with cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar. This gives the dessert a tangy and sweet flavor. You can also add in some lemon zest or lemon juice to give it a extra burst of citrus flavor.

Pro Tips for Success

There are a few tips to keep in mind when making this recipe. First, make sure to use a high-quality cake mix that is designed for lemon desserts. This will ensure that your dessert has the best flavor possible.

Another tip is to not overmix the batter. This can cause the dessert to be tough and dense, rather than light and fluffy. Simply mix the ingredients together until they are just combined, and then stop mixing.

Finally, make sure to let the dessert cool completely before serving. This will help it to set and make it easier to cut into bars. For more tips on how to make thick and creamy lemon bars, check out our website.

Flavor Variations

There are many ways to vary the flavor of this recipe. One idea is to add in some lemon zest or lemon juice to give it a extra burst of citrus flavor. You could also try adding in some other ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips, to give it a unique flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is perfect for serving at parties or special occasions. You can cut it into bars and serve it on a platter, or you can package it up in individual servings and give it as a gift.

For more ideas on how to make delicious lemon bars in a 9×13 pan, check out our recipe for lemon bars in a 9×13 pan.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

This dessert can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

CaloriesFatCarbsProteinFiberSugarSodium
287 kcal15 g36 g3 g0.02 g35 g137 mg

FAQs About Lemon Bars with Cake Mix

What is the best way to make lemon bars with cake mix?

The best way to make lemon bars with cake mix is to follow the instructions on the cake mix box and add in some additional ingredients to give it a lemon flavor.

Can I substitute the cake mix with a different type of mix?

Yes, you can substitute the cake mix with a different type of mix, such as a vanilla or yellow cake mix. Just be sure to add in some lemon zest or lemon juice to give it a lemon flavor.

How do I store lemon bars with cake mix?

This dessert can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, lemon bars with cake mix are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic baking skills, you can create a dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try today?

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