Lemon Cheesecake Squares

Ever wondered how to make your lemon desserts stand out from the ordinary? How about a dessert that combines the tangy freshness of lemons with the rich creaminess of cheesecake? I’m talking about Lemon Cheesecake Squares, my all-time favorite lemon dessert.

Ingredients List

Here is what you’ll need:

Shortbread Crust: 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup butter, and 2 tsp lemon zest.
Cheesecake Layer: 8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 egg.
Lemon Layer: 2 eggs, 1 cup sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 1/2 cup lemon juice.

For a healthier twist, you could substitute the regular sugar with coconut sugar or stevia. If you’re gluten-intolerant, feel free to use almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour.

Timing

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes

This is a relatively quick dessert, taking about 20% less time than the average cheesecake recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: The Shortbread Crust

Mix the flour, sugar, butter, and lemon zest until it resembles crumbly sand. Press this mixture into your pan and bake for about 15 minutes until golden.

Step 2: The Cheesecake Layer

While the crust is baking, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and egg until smooth. Pour this mixture over the warm crust and return it to the oven for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: The Lemon Layer

Whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, and lemon juice, and gently pour it over the cheesecake layer. Bake for another 25-30 minutes until set.

Nutritional Information

Each square contains about 200 calories, 10g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. They are also a good source of Vitamin C, thanks to the lemon juice.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can make these squares healthier by substituting the sugar with stevia or coconut sugar, and using almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan cream cheese substitute.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Cheesecake Squares make a perfect dessert for any occasion. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra decadence. Or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing summer treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing the process: Each layer needs its own time to bake properly. If you rush, you might end up with mixed layers.
Not waiting for them to cool: They need at least 3 hours in the fridge to set properly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate them with wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Conclusion

With their perfect balance of sweet and tangy, these Lemon Cheesecake Squares are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So why not give them a try? And if you do, don’t forget to share your experience with us!

Carte de Recette Foodica

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