Prepare yourself for a tantalizing journey into the realm of desserts with these delectable Lemony Cheesecake Squares, a delightful creation that perfectly balances the zesty freshness of lemon with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all nestled atop a crumbly, buttery crust! 🍋🍰
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup margarine, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup lemon juice concentrate
For Garnish:
- Your favorite fruit preserves or fresh berries
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (or 325 degrees if using a glass dish) to ensure it’s perfectly heated for the baking process.
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Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted margarine, stirring until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
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Press and Bake: Press the crumb mixture firmly onto the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for approximately 8 minutes until it sets and turns a golden brown hue. Once baked, allow the crust to cool completely.
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Lower Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees Fahrenheit in preparation for baking the cheesecake filling.
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Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it achieves a smooth and fluffy consistency. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes velvety smooth.
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Incorporate Eggs and Lemon Juice: Next, add the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, gently blend in the tangy lemon juice concentrate until the filling is thoroughly mixed and lusciously creamy.
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Assemble the Squares: Spread your favorite fruit preserves or fresh berries evenly over the cooled crust, creating a delightful fruity layer. Then, carefully pour the prepared cream cheese filling over the preserves, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled cheesecake squares into the oven and bake for approximately 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. Once baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
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Chill and Garnish: Once cooled, transfer the cheesecake squares to the refrigerator and chill thoroughly to enhance their creamy texture and meld the flavors. When ready to serve, garnish the squares as desired with additional fruit preserves, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
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Serve and Enjoy: With their irresistible combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake, these Lemony Cheesecake Squares are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delightful treat for yourself. Indulge in each heavenly bite and savor the burst of flavor with every mouthful.
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Store Leftovers: If there happen to be any leftovers (though they’re so delicious, that might be a rarity!), be sure to refrigerate them promptly to maintain their freshness and flavor for another delightful indulgence.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 642.7
- Fat Content: 38.8g
- Saturated Fat Content: 17.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 126.5mg
- Sodium Content: 440.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 65.2g
- Fiber Content: 1g
- Sugar Content: 32.3g
- Protein Content: 10.3g
Recipe Yield: 12-15 Servings
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure with these tantalizing Lemony Cheesecake Squares that are guaranteed to leave your taste buds dancing with delight! 🍋🍰
