Lemon Cream Cheese Squares

Here’s a delicious and simple Lemon Cream Cheese Squares recipe – a perfect blend of tangy lemon and rich, creamy filling on a sweet crust.

🍋 Lemon Cream Cheese Squares Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1/4 tsp salt

For the filling:

• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional but recommended)

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For topping (optional):

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Make the crust:

   • In a medium bowl, mix butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt until crumbly.

   • Press mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

   • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Make the filling:

   • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

   • Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.

   • Mix in flour, baking powder, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until fully combined.

   • Pour the filling over the warm crust.

4. Bake:

   • Return pan to oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are lightly golden.

   • Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

5. Serve:

   • Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Tips:

• For extra zing, add a bit more lemon zest.

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• These also freeze well – wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.