How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Line a square baking tin with baking paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
Step 2: Make the Base
In a bowl, combine the flour and icing sugar. Rub in the cold butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Press firmly into the prepared tin to form an even base.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the warm base.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale. Add the lemon juice, zest, and flour, whisking until smooth. Carefully pour the lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Step 5: Bake
Return the tin to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is set and just lightly golden around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the squares to cool completely in the tin, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the layers firm up and creates clean cuts.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Squares
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Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t give the same brightness.
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Chill before cutting to achieve neat, bakery-style squares.
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For extra zing, dust with icing sugar or add a thin lemon glaze on top.
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
A Dessert That Feels Fresh and Familiar
Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are the kind of dessert that appeal to almost everyone. They’re creamy without being heavy, tangy without being sharp, and sweet without being overwhelming. Whether served at a celebration or enjoyed quietly with a cup of tea, they bring a little sunshine to every bite.
If you’re looking for a reliable crowd-pleaser that still feels special, this is a recipe worth keeping close
