Lemon Cream Cheese Squares

Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a luscious dessert with layers of buttery crust, tangy lemon cream cheese filling, and a crumbly topping. These sweet and tart bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a citrusy treat. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these squares are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

• 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly.
3. Press two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Set the remaining mixture aside for the topping.

Step 2: Make the Filling

4. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and zest until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

6. Pour the lemon cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and the filling is set.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

9. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes

• Zest and juice: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Serving suggestion: Dust the squares with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a rich creaminess that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Whether served at a party or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, these bars are a delightful way to satisfy your citrus cravings. Try this recipe today and savor the bright, zesty flavors!

No ratings yet

Lemon Cream Cheese Squares

A delightful mix of lemon and cream cheese in a simple square format.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Rate Pin Rate Recipe Email Print Recipe

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs use finely ground
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter melted
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 0.5 cups sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
• 2 tbsp lemon zest grated

Instructions

 

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish.
• In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
• Add lemon juice and zest to the cream cheese mixture, and continue to mix until combined.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
• Let cool completely before slicing into squares.

Notes

Refrigerate the squares before serving for best texture.