Cheesecake Squares

Cheesecake Squares are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a creamy cheesecake filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. With their rich flavor and smooth texture, these squares will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for beginner bakers. Second, Cheesecake Squares are versatile—they can be served at parties, celebrations, or just as a delicious snack. Finally, they are easy to slice and serve, allowing you to share them with friends and family effortlessly.

How to Make Cheesecake Squares

Ingredients:

1/3 cup salted butter
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely ground walnuts
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

Directions:

Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and light brown sugar using an electric mixer until fluffy. Add the flour and ground walnuts. Blend until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Reserve 1/2 cup of this mixture for topping. Press the remaining crumbs evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove it from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the sugar, egg, milk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined. Pour the cheesecake filling over the hot crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top.
Bake and Cool: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. Take it out of the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours). Slice into squares and serve.

How to Serve Cheesecake Squares

Cheesecake Squares can be served plain or with toppings. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce, fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries, or a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra flavor. They are also delicious on their own!

How to Store Cheesecake Squares

To store Cheesecake Squares, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer.

Tips to Make Cheesecake Squares

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Don’t over-mix the filling; stop as soon as it’s combined to keep the texture creamy.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even add chocolate chips to the crumb topping for a twist!

Variation

You can change up this recipe by adding flavored extracts like almond or chocolate to the filling for a unique taste. You could also try using different nuts for the crust, like pecans or almonds, for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Yes, you can try using ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese for a different flavor.

Q2: How long do these squares take to bake?
A2: The Cheesecake Squares will take about 25 minutes to bake, plus an additional 2 hours to cool in the fridge.

Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! These squares are great to make a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious Cheesecake Squares!