Celebration Cheesecake Squares
Celebration Cheesecake Squares are a rich, creamy dessert with a graham cracker crust and smooth cheesecake filling, perfect for parties and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted margarine, and a dash of cinnamon, mixing thoroughly.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch nonstick pan.
- Bake for 4 to 5 minutes or until lightly browned, then cool.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F.
- In a bowl, combine whipped cream cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream, and lemon juice.
- Beat until smooth.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture on top of the cooled crust.
- Bake on the middle rack until set, 25 to 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then cut into 24 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free cookies. To save time, you can use pre-made graham cracker crumbs. Be sure to beat the cheesecake mixture until smooth to avoid lumps for that creamy texture. Adding a hint of vanilla extract can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake squares are perfect for celebrations and pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat. For an extra touch, garnish with whipped cream or serve with Baked Spiced Pears for a flavorful dessert combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheesecake squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, let thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celebration Cheesecake Squares contains roughly 185 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake squares can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are properly stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld, making them even more delicious.
Can I substitute the cream cheese for a lower-fat option?
Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or a Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture, but it will still yield tasty results.
What can I add to the cheesecake mixture for extra flavor?
You can incorporate various flavorings such as vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur. For a fruity twist, consider folding in some fresh berries or a fruit puree into the mixture before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).