Strawberry-Lemon Shortbread Bars

Ingredients

• 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 strawberry preserves
• Garnishes: sweetened whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices

Preparation

1. 1. 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.
2. 2. Bake at 350° for 20 to 22 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. 3. 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.
4. 4. Spread preserves over shortbread. Pour cream cheese mixture over preserves, 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.