Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful and tangy dessert that combines the creaminess of cream cheese with the bright flavor of lemon. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and egg. Beat until well combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Squares:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake Again:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool:
- Allow the lemon cream cheese squares to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Glaze the Squares:
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled cream cheese layer.
- Chill (Optional):
- For an even firmer texture, you can refrigerate the squares for a couple of hours before slicing.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once chilled (if desired), cut into squares and serve.
These Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. They make a refreshing dessert for any occasion. Enjoy!