Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery crust topped with tangy lemon filling, perfect for fans of citrus-flavored treats and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch pan.
- In a bowl, beat softened unsalted butter, softened cream cheese, and 1/3 cup confectioners sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in 1 cup all-purpose flour.
- Flour your fingers and press the dough into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes until set.
- In a bowl, mix slightly beaten eggs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, 3 tablespoons flour, baking powder, and lemon juice to make the filling.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares and dust with confectioners sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before beating. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by reducing the granulated sugar slightly. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors, especially if you're using unsalted butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these squares dusted with additional confectioners sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving them alongside a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon snack. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm slightly, ensuring they remain moist. Alternatively, enjoy them chilled as a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Cream Cheese Squares contains roughly 95 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may affect the creaminess of the squares. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will remain delicious. Just ensure it's softened before mixing for the best results.
What can I substitute for lemon juice if I don't have any?
If you don't have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute, though fresh is preferred for its vibrant flavor. Alternatively, lime juice can work in a pinch, providing a different yet enjoyable citrus profile.
How can I tell when the squares are done baking?
The squares are done when the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. A good test is to insert a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
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).