Description
These Zesty Lemon Cream Squares are a perfect balance of tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. A refreshing and delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the 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
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: 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. Stir in the flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Optional garnish: Dust the cooled lemon squares with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices or additional zest if desired.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can increase the lemon zest by 1/2 teaspoon.
- Make sure to let the squares cool completely in the fridge for best results. These are best served chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American