cream cheese squares recipe

cream cheese squares recipe

The Best cream cheese squares recipe

I’ve been making cream cheese squares for years, and they’re still a staple in my household. My kids love helping me assemble the squares, and they’re always a hit at family gatherings.

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make – just a few ingredients and some simple assembly required. I like to think of it as a classic comfort food dish that never goes out of style.

When I was growing up, my mother used to make these for potlucks and parties, and now I carry on that tradition with my own family. The creamy texture of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the crunch of the crackers, and the sweetness of the sugar adds just the right touch of flavor.

It’s a dish that’s easy to make ahead of time, too – just assemble the squares and refrigerate until serving. My kids love being able to help with this part, too – they love being able to see the finished product before we put it in the fridge.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a quick snack for after school. And as an added bonus, it’s also relatively healthy – just be sure to use low-fat cream cheese and crackers to keep things on the lighter side.

Cream Cheese Squares

Cream Cheese Squares

4.8 from 1006 votes

These cream cheese squares feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a creamy, tangy filling and a sweet crumb topping. They are perfect for dessert or a coffee break treat.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Cream Cheese Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
3In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup flour and 1/4 cup sugar for the crust.
4Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
6Bake for 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
7While the crust bakes, prepare the filling.
8In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar until smooth.
9Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and beat until fully combined and creamy.
10Pour the cream cheese filling over the hot crust, spreading it evenly.
11In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour and 1/4 cup sugar for the topping.
12Cut in 1/4 cup cold cubed butter until the mixture is crumbly.
13Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cream cheese layer.
14Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the topping is lightly browned and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
15Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

🔧Equipment

9×9 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Pastry cutter or fork
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 110mg🌾Total Carbs: 27g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a neater slice, chill the squares thoroughly before cutting. You can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for extra brightness.

Watch Video Of How Cream Cheese Squares Works

These cream cheese squares are a reliable dessert that works for any occasion. They are simple to make, taste amazing, and always get compliments. I love that I can make them ahead of time and they still taste fresh the next day.

For storage, keep them in the fridge in a covered container. They actually taste even better after a day because the flavors meld together. To reheat, just let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 10 seconds.

Serve them as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. They are perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a quiet night at home. I hope you give them a try and enjoy them as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Squares

1.

Q: What type of crackers are best for making cream cheese squares?

A: Some recipes call for saltines or Ritz crackers but others recommend using wheat thins or even rice cakes.

2.

Q: Can you use low-fat or non-fat cream cheese in place of regular cream cheese?

A: While you can certainly try using these alternatives regular cream cheese gives a better flavor.

3.

Q: How long do you recommend letting your cream cheese squares sit before serving?

A: Some people prefer them right away while others like them better after they’ve had time to set.

4.

Q: Do you have any tips for avoiding problems with your cream cheese squares not holding together?

A: One thing I’ve found helps is using cold cream cheese straight from the refrigerator which helps prevent it from melting too much during assembly.

5.

Q: Can you freeze your assembled squares?

A: Yes simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in an airtight container in your freezer until ready to thaw.

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