Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful dessert that combines the zesty flavor of lemons with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. These squares are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Lemon Layer:
- 1 cup lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it down evenly.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust in the baking pan. Spread it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, 1 cup granulated sugar, 4 eggs, and all-purpose flour until well combined.
- Carefully pour the lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquidy.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow the squares to set.
- Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the lemon cream cheese squares out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars.
- Optional: Dust the tops with powdered sugar or garnish with additional lemon zest before serving.
These Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are tangy, sweet, and creamy—a perfect treat for lemon dessert lovers. Enjoy!
