Description
These Zesty Lemon Cream Squares feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, creamy lemon-infused cheesecake layer. Perfectly balanced with tangy lemon juice and zest, this refreshing dessert is ideal for any occasion and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the blend is smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well between additions to incorporate air and achieve a silky texture. Mix in the all-purpose flour, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Once baked, let the bars cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Chill the bars: After cooling, refrigerate the lemon cream squares for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up completely for easy slicing.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh lemon slices or extra lemon zest for a pop of color and additional citrus aroma.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a lump-free batter.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor in the lemon juice and zest.
- Allow the bars to chill fully before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free graham crackers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
