Description
Zesty Lemon Cream Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, tangy lemon cheesecake layer. Perfectly balanced with fresh lemon juice and zest, these squares offer a refreshing citrus flavor with a smooth texture, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the lemon squares after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a solid crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the flour, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the squares to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices or additional lemon zest to add freshness and visual appeal. Cut into 12 squares and enjoy.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Using fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the bright citrus flavor.
- Allow the squares to chill properly in the refrigerator for the best texture and clean slicing.
- For easier removal, leave some parchment paper overhang when lining the pan.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
