Lemony Cream Cheese Dessert Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers (choose a lower SmartPoints option)
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter or a butter substitute

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar substitute (e.g., erythritol or monk fruit)
• Zest of one lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Topping:

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar substitute
• Lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined or greased baking dish.
3. Bake the Crust:
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine softened reduced-fat cream cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt, powdered sugar substitute, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Spread the Cream Cheese Layer:
   • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
6. Prepare the Lemon Topping:
   • In a small saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, water, cornstarch, and powdered sugar substitute. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
7. Spread the Lemon Topping:
   • Once thickened, pour the lemon topping over the cream cheese layer.
8. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours or until set. Cut into bars before serving.
9. Garnish (Optional):
   • Garnish with lemon zest if desired.
10. approximately 4-5 points per bar,