Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares

There’s something about lemon desserts that just feels like sunshine on a plate. We’ve tried cakes, cookies, and icebox treats, but these Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares take our lemon love to a whole new level. Imagine a dessert with layers of crescent roll dough, enveloping a luscious lemon cream cheese filling, topped with a delightful buttery glaze. It’s a simple, yet irresistible treat that you won’t be able to get enough of!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a must-try for lemon lovers. The combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheese is an unmatched delight. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only three major steps. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want a delicious snack, these squares are perfect for any occasion.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Pastry brush

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 (8 oz.) packages refrigerated crescent roll dough, divided
• 1 large lemon, zested and juiced, divided
• 1/2 cup sugar, plus 3 tablespoons, divided
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and place it in the prepared baking dish. Carefully pinch the seams together to seal and press the dough into the edges of the dish.
3. In a large bowl or mixer, beat the cream cheese for 1-2 minutes until fluffy. Add 1/2 cup of sugar, all the lemon juice, 3/4 of the lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the bottom crust in the baking dish. Unroll the remaining crescent roll dough and place it gently over the lemon cream cheese filling, pinching the seams again and stretching the dough to the edges of the dish.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter with 3 tablespoons of sugar and the remaining lemon zest, then brush it over the top layer of dough.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing. Also, don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the bars set properly for slicing.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for added sweetness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving is approximately 250 calories, with 15g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough? Yes, puff pastry can be used, but the texture will be flakier compared to the cakey texture of crescent rolls.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these squares? Yes, you can freeze them. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Conclusion

These Sunshine Lemon Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful treat that bring a burst of citrus sunshine to any table. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out for you. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you come up with!