Description
Zesty Lemon Cream Squares are a refreshing and creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth lemon-flavored cream cheese layer. Perfectly balanced with bright lemon juice and zest, these squares are baked until set and chilled to create a tangy yet sweet treat that is ideal for gatherings or a delightful homemade snack.
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 for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare 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 cream squares after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until all the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Next, stir in the all-purpose flour, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese lemon mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust in the pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Bake the assembled squares for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the baked lemon cream squares to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to fully set the dessert.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, dust the chilled squares with powdered sugar. Garnish with lemon slices or additional lemon zest for an attractive and flavorful finish. Cut into 12 squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For the best texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest to bring out the most vibrant lemon flavor.
- Allow the squares to chill thoroughly to firm up and make clean cutting possible without cracking.
- Parchment paper makes removal of the squares from the pan easy and helps maintain the shape.
- If you prefer a less tangy dessert, reduce the lemon juice slightly but keep the zest for aroma.
