Lemony Cheesecake Squares(Makes 12 To 15 Servings.)
Lemony Cheesecake Squares offer a creamy, citrus-flavored dessert with a strawberry preserve topping, perfect for gatherings and cheesecake lovers seeking a tangy, sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Combine vanilla wafer crumbs, sugar, and melted margarine or butter; press firmly on the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 8 minutes and then cool.
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F.
- In a large mixer bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy.
- Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add eggs and ReaLemon lemon juice; mix well.
- Spread strawberry preserves evenly over the prepared crust.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the preserves.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the center is set.
- Cool the cheesecake squares completely.
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
- Garnish as desired and refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have vanilla wafer crumbs, graham cracker crumbs make a great substitute. To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheese mixture. For a fun twist, try topping with fresh berries or whipped cream, which pairs beautifully with the cheesecake squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake squares chilled for the best flavor and texture. They make a delightful dessert after a rich meal or a sweet treat for an afternoon gathering. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon break. Consider garnishing with additional strawberry preserves or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid reheating, as it can alter the texture; enjoy them chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemony Cheesecake Squares(Makes 12 To 15 Servings.) contains roughly 260 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 15g 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 type of crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, try using graham cracker crumbs or even crushed Oreo cookies for a chocolatey twist. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your chosen crust.
How can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cheesecake squares, simply substitute the vanilla wafer crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts. Always check the labels on your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
What can I substitute for ReaLemon lemon juice?
If you don’t have ReaLemon lemon juice, fresh lemon juice works well too. Use about the same amount, but taste the mixture before baking to adjust the tartness to your preference.
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).