Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares: A Refreshing and Creamy Dessert Recipe

Name: Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 8 oz cream cheese (can use low-fat cream cheese); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Introduction

Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, creating a refreshing and indulgent dessert. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for summer gatherings, afternoon snacks, or a light dessert after dinner. In this article, we’ll guide you through making these delicious squares, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance of taste and texture.

What You’ll Need

Kitchen Tools

Preparing Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares is straightforward, especially if you have the right kitchen tools on hand. Here’s a list of tools you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two mixing bowls – one for the base and one for the filling.

Electric Mixer: An electric mixer is essential for achieving a smooth, creamy filling.
Baking Dish: A standard 9×9 inch baking dish works well for this recipe.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial, so ensure you have a complete set of measuring cups and spoons.

Having these tools ready will streamline the process, making it easier to create perfect Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares every time.

Ingredients

Base

Creating the perfect base is key to a delicious dessert. The following ingredients will form the crumbly, buttery bottom layer:

1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and stability to the crust.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the crust and helps achieve a tender texture.

Filling

The filling is where the magic happens, combining creamy and zesty flavors. Gather these ingredients:

8 oz cream cheese: You can opt for low-fat cream cheese to reduce the overall fat content without compromising on creaminess.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tartness of the lemon.
2 large eggs: Provide structure and help set the filling.

1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for a bright, natural flavor.
Zest of 1 lemon: Adds extra lemony goodness and fragrance.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of warmth.

Having all your ingredients measured and ready before you start mixing will ensure a smooth baking process.

Instructions

Preparing the Base

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the base.
Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture is crumbly.

Press into Baking Dish: Firmly press the crumbly mixture into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish, creating an even layer. This forms the crust for your lemon cream cheese squares.
Bake the Crust: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Making the Filling

Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This step ensures the filling is well-blended and free of lumps.

Add the Eggs: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air and create a light, fluffy texture.
Incorporate Lemon and Vanilla: Mix in 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the zest of 1 lemon, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Pour Over the Crust: Pour the cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Baking

Bake the Dessert: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the dessert to cool completely in the baking dish. This step is crucial for easy cutting and serving.
Cut into Squares: Once cooled, cut the dessert into squares of your desired size. For best results, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure neat edges.

Cooling and Serving

Chill in Refrigerator: For the best flavor and texture, chill the squares in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps to firm up the filling and enhances the refreshing lemon flavor.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares chilled. For an extra touch, garnish with additional lemon zest or a sprig of fresh mint.

Nutrition Score

Understanding the nutritional content of your Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares is essential, especially if you’re mindful of your dietary intake. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

Calories: Approximately 220 per square
Fat: 12g
Protein: 3g

Carbohydrates: 27g
Sugars: 18g
Fiber: 0.5g

Using Low-Fat Cream Cheese

If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, using low-fat cream cheese is a great option. This substitution can significantly lower the calorie and fat content without compromising the creamy texture and rich flavor.

Benefits of Lemon

Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties. Incorporating lemon juice and zest not only adds a refreshing flavor but also contributes to your daily vitamin intake.

Moderation is Key

While these squares are a delicious treat, moderation is essential. Enjoying a square or two as a part of a balanced diet can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions

Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal:

Serve Chilled: These squares taste best when served chilled. The cool temperature accentuates the refreshing lemon flavor, making it a perfect summer treat.
Garnish Options: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top of each square for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Alternatively, a small mint leaf can add a touch of color and a fresh aroma.

Accompaniments: Pair the squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. They also go well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures that your Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares remain fresh and delicious for several days:

Refrigeration: Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure to place a layer of parchment paper between the squares if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.

Freezing: If you want to enjoy the squares at a later date, you can freeze them. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw the squares in the refrigerator overnight.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares remain a delightful treat whenever you’re ready to enjoy them.

Variations

Flavor Twists

Adding a personal touch to the classic recipe can make it even more special. Here are a couple of variations to consider:

Raspberry Swirl: Add a swirl of raspberry puree to the cream cheese filling before baking. To do this, drop spoonfuls of raspberry puree on top of the filling and use a knife to create a swirl pattern. The combination of raspberry and lemon creates a delightful fruity twist.
Lime Variation: Substitute the lemon juice and zest with lime for a tangy variation. Lime offers a slightly different citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, giving the squares a unique and refreshing taste.

Dietary Adjustments

Adapting the recipe to meet specific dietary needs can make these squares accessible to more people:

Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour in the base with almond flour. Almond flour provides a nutty flavor and a slightly different texture, but it works well in this recipe and ensures that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the treat.
Low-Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. These alternatives can reduce the sugar content significantly while still providing the necessary sweetness. Be sure to check the conversion rates as these sweeteners can vary in their sweetness compared to sugar.

By trying out these variations and dietary adjustments, you can tailor the recipe to fit your taste preferences and dietary requirements.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese to make the dessert healthier. The texture will still be creamy, and the taste will remain delicious, making it a great option for those looking to reduce fat intake.

How do I store Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares, and how long will they stay fresh?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap each square individually and freeze them. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares for later use?

Absolutely. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Conclusion

Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to your table. The combination of tangy lemon and creamy filling is irresistible, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some of the variations, these squares are sure to impress your family and friends.

Making these delicious squares is a breeze, and they are guaranteed to brighten up any gathering. The refreshing lemon flavor paired with the creamy texture of the filling creates a harmonious balance that will leave everyone asking for more. So why not try this recipe today and bring a touch of sunshine to your dessert table?

Don’t forget to share your experience with us. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed the Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares and any creative twists you added!

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