Cream Cheese Squares are a delectable dessert that combines a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake-like filling, and a tantalizing topping. This timeless treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to potluck parties. With its irresistible flavor and easy preparation, Cream Cheese Squares are sure to become a favorite among both young and old. In this blog post, we will share a tried-and-true recipe for Cream Cheese Squares, complete with a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips to ensure your squares turn out perfectly. Get ready to indulge in this sweet delight that will leave your taste buds craving for more!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the topping:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Making the crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar.
- Using a fork or your hands, mix the ingredients until they form a crumbly texture.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form the crust.
- Preparing the cream cheese filling:
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg to the cream cheese, and continue beating until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Creating the delicious topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cream cheese filling.
- Baking to perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Serving and enjoying:
- Once cooled, cut the Cream Cheese Squares into desired-sized squares.
- Serve them as a delightful dessert for family and friends to enjoy.
Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Squares:
- Soften the cream cheese and butter: It’s important to ensure that the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Use parchment paper: For easy removal and clean-up, line the baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the sides. This will make it simpler to lift the squares out of the dish once they are cooled.
- Customize with toppings: Enhance the flavor and presentation of your Cream Cheese Squares by adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream on top.