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To make these zesty lemon cheesecake squares, gather these simple items: - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar - 16 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 3 large eggs - ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons) - Zest of 2 lemons - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - ½ teaspoon baking powder - Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) When using fresh lemons, pick ones that feel heavy and firm. These lemons give a more vibrant taste. Softened cream cheese blends well and ensures a creamy texture. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. Use unsalted butter to control the salt in your dessert. If you don’t have graham crackers, use crushed cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cream cheese. You can also swap fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice in a pinch. If you prefer a different taste, lime juice or orange juice can work too. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps later in the article. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a mixing bowl and combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix it until every crumb is coated well. Next, take a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom to form a nice layer. Bake it for 10 minutes. Let it cool for a bit after that. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth. Use an electric mixer for this part. Gradually add in the sugar and mix until it all blends well. Now, add the eggs one by one, mixing after each egg. Next, pour in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Mix everything until it is well combined. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Make sure to spread it evenly. Bake this in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. The center should be set but still a bit jiggly. When it's done, take it out and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After that, cover it and chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors to meld together perfectly. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above! To get smooth and creamy cheesecake squares, start with room temperature cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps. Mix it well until it’s fluffy. Adding eggs one at a time also helps. Each egg should blend in before you add the next. This keeps the mixture smooth. When baking, don't overcook. The center should be just slightly jiggly when done. One common mistake is not preheating the oven. Always preheat to 350°F before baking. Another mistake is skipping the cooling step. Letting the cheesecake cool before chilling is key. Don't rush the chilling process either. Chill for at least four hours for the best texture. Lastly, avoid overmixing after adding the eggs. This can make the cheesecake too airy. These lemon cheesecake squares shine when served cold. Cut them into small squares for easy sharing. Dust with powdered sugar for a nice touch. Pair them with fresh berries for added flavor and color. A dollop of whipped cream also makes a lovely addition. For a twist, try a lemon zest garnish on top for extra zing. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas! {{image_2}} You can brighten your lemon cheesecake squares by adding fresh berries. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries work well. Simply place the berries on top after cutting the squares. You can also fold them into the filling before baking. This adds color and flavor. Fresh berries bring a nice tartness that pairs well with the creamy cheesecake. If you need gluten-free options, swap the graham cracker crumbs. Use gluten-free graham crackers or ground nuts like almonds. Mix them with melted butter and sugar. This will create a tasty crust without gluten. The texture might change a bit, but it still tastes great. You can switch the lemon juice for other citrus juices. Lime or orange juice gives a new twist. Use the zest from the same fruit for extra flavor. Each citrus option brings its unique taste. This makes your cheesecake squares fun and varied with each bite. Try these variations for a delightful twist on your lemon cheesecake squares. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To keep your lemon cheesecake squares fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to avoid drying out. If you plan to store them for a while, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap. This helps keep the flavor bright and the texture creamy. Lemon cheesecake squares last about five days in the fridge. After that, they may lose taste and texture. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If they look or smell funny, it's best to toss them. You can freeze your lemon cheesecake squares for later. Cut them into squares, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They stay good for up to three months. To enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. You can use Greek yogurt or silken tofu. Both options create a creamy texture. Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor, while silken tofu makes it dairy-free. Blend either choice with sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and zest. This will give you a tasty filling that’s light and zesty. You can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. Both options work well for the crust. If you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or gluten-free cookies. Just crush them into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter and sugar, then press into the baking dish. Yes, you can make these squares up to two days in advance. Just follow the full recipe and chill them in the fridge. They taste even better after a day. This makes them great for parties or gatherings. Just cut and serve when you’re ready! In this article, we covered ingredients for lemon cheesecake squares, tips for perfecting your recipe, and variations to try. I shared step-by-step instructions for the crust and filling. I also offered storage tips and answered common questions. Remember, with a few simple tricks, you can create a dessert that wows everyone. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing your tasty results! Happy baking!

Lemon Cheesecake Squares

Indulge in the delightful taste of Zesty Lemon Cheesecake Squares with this easy recipe! Perfect for any occasion, these creamy and tangy treats are made with simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice and cream cheese, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Get ready to impress your family and friends—click through to discover the full recipe and bring a burst of flavor to your dessert table! Don't miss out on this delectable treat!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

Zest of 2 lemons

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon baking powder

Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly.

    Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and mix until well combined.

      Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and baking powder until everything is well incorporated.

        Combine and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

          Cool and Chill: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

            Serve: Once chilled, cut into squares. Dust the tops with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling) | Servings: 16 squares