Lemon Park Avenue Squares
Lemon Park Avenue Squares are rich, creamy dessert bars with a buttery cake base and a tangy lemon-flavored cream cheese topping, perfect for parties or afternoon treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, 1 egg, chopped nuts, and melted margarine.
- Press this mixture into a 9 x 12-inch pan to form the base.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla or lemon flavoring until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using real butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with a mix of seeds. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the powdered sugar slightly if desired. Adding a tablespoon of lemon zest can enhance the citrus flavor, making it even more vibrant. This recipe pairs wonderfully with Murel'S Cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these squares chilled or at room temperature, dusted with additional powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They make a perfect dessert for gatherings or potlucks, and a side of fresh berries can complement the lemon flavor beautifully. Consider pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Park Avenue Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Park Avenue Squares contains roughly 336 calories, with 3g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 16g 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 a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as lemon or vanilla for a unique twist. Just ensure the flavor complements the cream cheese layer.
What if I don't have cream cheese?
If cream cheese is not available, you can substitute it with mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. These will provide a similar creamy texture, though the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free. Just check the ingredients on the cake mix box to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
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).