Description
Zesty Lemon Cream Squares are a delightful combination of a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy lemon cream cheese filling. These refreshing bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and citrus flavors, ideal for a light dessert or a refreshing treat after meals. With a creamy texture and subtle lemon zest, they are sure to brighten up any dessert table.
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
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the lemon squares.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then take the pan out of the oven and set it aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the flour, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing everything until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the lemon squares to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours to let the squares fully set and chill.
- Garnish and Serve: Once chilled, dust the lemon cream squares with powdered sugar. Garnish with lemon slices or additional lemon zest as desired before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly and evenly for a sturdy base.
- Do not overbake the lemon squares; the center should be set but slightly jiggly when done.
- For sharper lemon flavor, increase lemon zest slightly but avoid adding too much lemon juice to prevent curdling.
- These squares can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the bars to chill thoroughly to make cutting easier and cleaner.
