Lemon Cheesecake Squares are like little bites of sunshine wrapped in creamy goodness. Picture a buttery crust giving way to a luscious, tangy filling that dances on your taste buds while scents of fresh lemons waft through the kitchen, making everyone within a mile radius swoon with delight. light starter before dessert.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other citrus fruits?
- How do I know when they are set?
- Can I freeze Lemon Cheesecake Squares?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made Lemon Cheesecake Squares for a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and declared it the best dessert ever, leaving me feeling like a culinary rock star. perfect dessert for celebrations Trust me, these squares are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just an afternoon pick-me-up. Your taste buds will thank you!
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] These Lemon Cheesecake Squares are incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than an hour from start to finish. The flavor is a delightful balance of sweet and tart that will leave you wanting more. Their beautiful yellow hue adds a pop of color to any dessert table. Perfectly portioned squares make them ideal for sharing or indulging solo! [/info_box]
I once served these at a barbecue, and my uncle asked if I had secretly attended pastry school.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious breakfast idea recipe.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Choose finely crushed crumbs for a smooth crust that holds together nicely.
Unsalted Butter: Use melted butter for optimal blending with the crumbs, creating that buttery goodness.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the perfect base for both crust and filling.
Fresh Lemons: Opt for juicy lemons; they pack the most flavorful punch into your cheesecake filling.
Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and creamy texture. great for casual gatherings.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your squares.
Eggs: Room temperature eggs blend smoothly into the batter, ensuring a light texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the flavor profile and rounds out the sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Create the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Mix the Filling Ingredients: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until fluffy; then incorporate sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully blended.
Bake Your Squares: Pour the filling over your crust in the pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool and Chill Your Creation: Let your Lemon Cheesecake Squares cool at room temperature before transferring them to the fridge. Chill for at least two hours before cutting into squares; patience is key here! For more inspiration, check out this savory side dishes recipe.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once chilled, slice into squares and serve with additional lemon zest or whipped cream if desired. Prepare for compliments!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Lemon Cheesecake Squares are more than just a dessert; they’re a burst of sunshine! The perfect balance of tart and sweet makes them irresistible, and a great way to impress your friends at gatherings. Their creamy texture and zesty flavor will keep you coming back for seconds. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first while preheating your oven to ensure even baking. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, then press it into the pan. While that bakes, whip up the cheesecake filling for a seamless experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap graham crackers with crushed cookies or nuts for a unique twist. You can also add zest from an orange or lime for an extra citrus kick that’ll surprise your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store Lemon Cheesecake Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best results, enjoy them chilled straight from the refrigerator without reheating to maintain their creamy texture. satisfying comfort food option.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling that blends easily. Don’t rush the cooling process; chilling helps set the squares perfectly. Always zest before juicing lemons for maximum flavor and ease! [/info_box]
Baking these Lemon Cheesecake Squares always reminds me of family potlucks where they vanished in minutes! Everyone kept asking for my “secret ingredient,” but I just smiled and said love—and lots of lemon!
FAQ
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Try lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when they are set?
The center should slightly jiggle but not be liquid when done baking.
Can I freeze Lemon Cheesecake Squares?
Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months without losing flavor.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Lemon Cheesecake Squares
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Lemon Cheesecake Squares are a delightful fusion of sweet and tart, wrapped in a creamy filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing afternoon treat, these squares offer a burst of sunshine in every bite. With their bright flavor and beautiful presentation, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Easy to prepare in under an hour, this recipe is a must-try for dessert lovers!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add remaining sugar and mix until fluffy. Add sour cream, lemon juice, zest, eggs, and vanilla extract; blend until fully combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes or until slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow the squares to cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least two hours.
- Slice into squares and enjoy chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
