Introduction
Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful dessert that combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich and creamy filling, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. These squares are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy them at parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home.
The smooth cream cheese filling is subtly sweet and can be flavored with hints of vanilla and lemon, creating a refreshing taste that complements the crust beautifully. Each bite is a perfect balance of textures, with the crisp base contrasting the velvety filling.
Ideal for serving to guests or enjoying with family, Cream Cheese Squares can be dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, these squares are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
¼ cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for added flavor)
For Topping (optional):
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a dough.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Bake the Crust:
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using), and mix until fully combined.
Combine and Bake:
Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish.
Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage Method
To keep your Cream Cheese Squares fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Cooling:
Allow the cream cheese squares to cool completely in the baking dish after baking. This prevents condensation and maintains their texture.
Refrigeration:
Once cooled, cover the squares with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, you can freeze the cream cheese squares.
Preparation:
Cut the squares into individual portions.
Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Storage Duration: They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing and Serving:
From the Refrigerator: Simply serve chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
From the Freezer: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy Anytime!
By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your Cream Cheese Squares at their best, whether freshly made or reheated later!