Experience a burst of citrusy delight with every bite of these Lemon Cheesecake Squares. This recipe combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the refreshing tang of lemon, resulting in a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or simply craving a sweet treat to brighten your day, these squares are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 2 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
- Prepare the Filling: In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake and Cool: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Chill and Serve: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake squares for at least 4 hours or until completely chilled and set. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Garnish with Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to your cheesecake squares by garnishing them with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
- Drizzle with Lemon Glaze: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, drizzle the chilled cheesecake squares with a simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Experiment with Crust Variations: Try using crushed digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies for the crust for a different flavor and texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a mixture of almond flour and coconut flour for a low-carb crust. Replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Low-Carb Twist: Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a sugar-free sweetener to lower the carb content further. Opt for full-fat cream cheese to keep the carbs in check.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice? A: While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use store-bought lemon juice as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to choose a pure lemon juice without any added sweeteners or preservatives.
Q: Can I freeze these cheesecake squares? A: Yes, you can freeze these cheesecake squares for up to 1 month. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I make these squares ahead of time? A: Absolutely! These cheesecake squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving. This makes them a convenient dessert option for parties or gatherings.
Q: Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavorings such as lime zest, orange zest, or even a hint of coconut extract for a tropical twist.
Treat yourself to the tantalizing taste of Lemon Cheesecake Squares, where creamy cheesecake meets zesty lemon goodness. With its buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cream cheese filling, and bright lemon flavor, this dessert is a true delight for the senses. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet moment of bliss, these squares are sure to bring a smile to your face. So, whip up a batch, share them with loved ones, and savor the joy of homemade dessert perfection!
