Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a tantalizing blend of tangy lemon and creamy cheese, layered on a buttery crust. These squares offer a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Their vibrant lemon flavor combined with a rich, creamy texture is sure to impress your taste buds and become a go-to dessert for family gatherings, picnics, and potlucks.
Our familyโs love affair with Lemon Cream Cheese Squares began one sunny summer afternoon. I was looking for a light and refreshing to serve at a backyard barbecue. With lemons freshly picked from our garden, I decided to experiment with a new recipe. The result was an instant hit. My husband, who is usually a enthusiast, couldnโt stop raving about the zesty lemon flavor and creamy texture. These squares have since become a staple at our summer lunchbox treat. Watching their faces light up with each bite makes baking these squares a joy.
Ingredients:
1ย cupย of unsalted butterย softened
1ย cupย of granulated sugar
1ย teaspoonย of vanilla extract
2ย cupsย of all-purpose flour
1/2ย teaspoonย of salt
1ย 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened
1ย cupย of powdered sugar
1ย large egg
2ย tablespoonsย of lemon zest
1/4ย cupย of freshly squeezed lemon juice
Directions:
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Make the Crust: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth. Add the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and mix until everything is well combined.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
Cool and Serve: Allow the lemon cream cheese squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.