Description
These Zesty Lemon Cream Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, tangy lemon cheesecake filling. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and fresh lemon zest, these squares offer a refreshing citrus flavor that’s both rich and light.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 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
Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 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, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the all-purpose flour, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the creamy lemon cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top for uniform baking.
- Bake the squares: Place the pan back into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. After baking, allow the squares to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating.
- Chill and garnish: Refrigerate the squares for at least 2 hours to let them set completely. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh lemon slices or additional lemon zest for an attractive presentation.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling without lumps.
- Make sure to press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
- Refrigeration is essential for the squares to set properly and enhance the flavors.
- You can adjust lemon juice quantity for more or less tartness, depending on preference.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
