Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!

Name: Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:15:58.722Z

These delightful treats were such a hit at the church cooking contest that they disappeared before the event even started. Everyone loved the unique flavor combination!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly delicious and crowd-pleasing
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for any gathering or celebration

      

A Perfect Treat for Every Occasion

These delightful cream cheese-topped squares are ideal for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Their irresistible taste and appealing presentation make them a hit with guests of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, potluck, or simply want to brighten up a weekday dinner, these treats will surely impress.

The simplicity of this recipe allows you to whip up a batch in no time, making it a go-to choice for busy schedules. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet, without the fuss. Your friends and family won’t believe how easy it was to make such a delicious treat!

Flavorful and Versatile

One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. While lemon zest adds a refreshing touch, you can easily customize the flavors to suit your preferences. Consider adding zest from other citrus fruits like orange or lime, or incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy these squares in various flavor profiles throughout the year.

Additionally, these cream cheese squares can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dessert or paired with fresh fruits and a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant dessert platter. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a must-have in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Base

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before proceeding to the next steps.

Instructions

Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Bake the Base

Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the lemon zest.

Assemble

Once the base has cooled, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve!

Enjoy these delicious treats with friends and family!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cream cheese topping is perfectly smooth, make sure to let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This will help it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.

When spreading the topping over the cooled base, use an offset spatula for an even layer. This not only helps in achieving a professional finish but also makes it easier to cut into squares later without disturbing the topping.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These cream cheese squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them perfect for meal prep or making ahead for gatherings. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving, as the flavors are enhanced when they are slightly warm.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of crushed nuts before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also gives a delightful crunch that complements the creamy topping, creating an even more enjoyable eating experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?

Yes, you can try mascarpone or ricotta for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, they freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute.