INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse sand and holds together when pressed.
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a firm, even layer.
Bake the Crust:
- Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the cream cheese filling.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest, blending until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Remove the cream cheese squares from the oven and let them cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
Chill and Serve:
- Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill the cream cheese squares for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- When ready to serve, use a sharp knife to cut the chilled dessert into squares of your desired size.
- Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Enjoy:
- Serve these decadent Cream Cheese Squares as a delightful dessert for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering, potluck, or holiday celebration.
