Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are like a burst of sunshine on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a velvety square that effortlessly balances tangy lemon and creamy cheese, topped with a dreamy smoothness. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in this delightful treat. Whether it’s a sunny picnic or a cozy evening at home, these squares bring joy to every occasion.
As I recall my first encounter with Lemon Cream Cheese Squares, I remember thinking they were too cute to eat. But one bite later, and I was hooked! Perfect for family gatherings or simply satisfying that sweet tooth, these squares promise an amazing flavor experience that will have you asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients.
- Their bright flavor profile will leave you craving more after each bite.
- Visually stunning with their vibrant yellow hue, they make any dessert table pop!
- Perfect for potlucks or just a sweet treat at home, they’re versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This essential ingredient provides structure to your squares; opt for unbleached flour for a richer taste.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the deal by using regular sugar; it helps balance the tartness of the lemon beautifully.
- Baking Powder: A key leavening agent that gives our squares that delightful lift—no one likes flat desserts!
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: For richness and moisture; be sure it’s softened so it blends easily.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It adds brightness and tanginess that’s simply irresistible.
- Lemon Zest: Don’t forget this little gem; it packs in loads of lemony goodness!
- Eggs: They bind everything together while adding richness. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and grease it lightly with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This creates the base of our flavorful squares.
Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and some granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This might take about three minutes; trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese
Blend in softened cream cheese until smooth. You’ll want everything nicely incorporated here—no lumps allowed! Then mix in lemon juice and zest until combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs
Now crack in those eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should be creamy and luscious at this point—just like your favorite dessert!
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour this glorious batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean; if not, give it a few more minutes.
Once baked, let them cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Transfer to plates as you serve them up—these beauties deserve to shine!
Enjoy your Lemon Cream Cheese Squares as they are or sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
You Must Know
- These Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful escape to citrusy heaven.
- With their creamy texture and zesty flavor, they’ll have you dreaming of sunny days, even if it’s cloudy outside.
- Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first, then mix the cream cheese filling while the crust bakes. Once the crust is golden, pour in the filling and bake again until set. This sequence ensures every layer shines in its moment.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap lemon juice for lime or orange juice for a different zing. You can also add fresh berries on top for a pop of color and flavor. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some zest for extra flair!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can pop them in the freezer for longer storage. Just thaw before serving to retain that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make these Lemon Cream Cheese Squares irresistible, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- A little zest goes a long way in enhancing flavor.
- Lastly, don’t skip chilling them; it helps set everything beautifully!
Sometimes, I whip up these Lemon Cream Cheese Squares when friends pop over unexpectedly. Their smiles and compliments always remind me why I love baking—it’s all about sharing joy through food!
FAQs:
What are Lemon Cream Cheese Squares?
delightful dessert that combines a creamy lemon-flavored filling with a buttery crust. This treat is perfect for those who love tangy flavors and rich textures. The squares are easy to make, using simple ingredients like cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and fresh lemon juice. They are ideal for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing snack at home. You’ll appreciate their sweet yet tart taste that satisfies your dessert cravings.
How do I store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Squares?
To store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Squares, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will remain fresh for about five days when stored properly. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make Lemon Cream Cheese Squares dairy-free?
Yes, you can make dairy-free by substituting traditional with a plant-based alternative made from nuts or soy. Additionally, ensure that any other dairy products used in the recipe are replaced with non-dairy options. Coconut cream or cashew cream can serve as good substitutes for rich flavors without compromising on taste.
What can I serve with Lemon Cream Cheese Squares?
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares pair well with various accompaniments. You might consider serving them with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess to each bite. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar enhances their sweetness while maintaining their elegant appearance.
Conclusion for Lemon Cream Cheese Squares:
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are an irresistible treat that brings together creamy textures and vibrant citrus flavors. They are straightforward to prepare and can be customized to suit dietary preferences. By storing them correctly, you can enjoy these delightful squares for several days or even freeze them for later indulgence. Whether served at gatherings or enjoyed alone, they deliver a satisfying dessert experience everyone will love. Don’t miss the chance to make these delicious lemon squares today!
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a refreshing dessert that perfectly combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the creamy richness of cream cheese. These squares are easy to prepare and visually appealing, making them an ideal treat for any occasion, from gatherings to cozy nights in. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat, softened)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add cream cheese and mix until smooth, then incorporate lemon juice and zest.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, experiment by substituting lemon juice with lime or orange juice. - Top with fresh berries for added color and taste. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for longer storage.
