Favorite Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Introduction
If you’re a fan of tangy lemon desserts, then these lemon cream cheese squares are a must-try! They are incredibly delicious and easy to make. The combination of zesty lemon and creamy cheese will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a special occasion, these squares will surely impress your guests. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these delightful treats.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating an even layer.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Making the Filling
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
Add the granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
Mix in the lemon juice and lemon zest, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 3: Assembling and Baking
Pour the cream cheese filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Variations
While these lemon cream cheese squares are already delicious as is, you can always add a personal touch by incorporating some variations:
1. Graham Cracker Crust:
Replace the regular crust with a graham cracker crust for a different texture and flavor. Simply crush graham crackers and mix them with melted butter to form the crust.
2. Raspberry Swirl:
Add a raspberry swirl to the cream cheese filling by spooning dollops of raspberry preserves and gently swirling them with a knife before baking.
3. Blueberry Lemon:
Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the cream cheese filling for a burst of fruity flavor. You can either mix them into the filling or scatter them on top before baking.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you achieve perfect lemon cream cheese squares:
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother and creamier filling.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it may have a slightly artificial taste.
- Zest the lemons before juicing them. The zest adds an extra punch of lemon flavor.
- Allow the squares to cool completely before adding the powdered sugar topping. This prevents the sugar from melting and ensures a nice dusting on top.
- Refrigerate the squares for a few hours before serving for a chilled and refreshing treat.
Conclusion
These lemon cream cheese squares are a delightful combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheese. With a buttery crust and a luscious filling, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a lemon lover or just looking for a delicious dessert, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds. Give it a try and enjoy these heavenly squares!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
While it’s always best to use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor, you can use store-bought lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that fresh lemon juice will give you the best results.
2. Can I freeze these lemon cream cheese squares?
Yes, you can freeze these squares for up to 2-3 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of citrus fruit?
Yes, you can experiment with different citrus fruits such as lime or orange to create unique variations of these squares. Just make sure to adjust the measurements according to your taste preferences.
