Lemon Cheesecake Squares are a delightful fusion of tart lemon flavor, creamy cheesecake filling, and a hearty oat crust, topped with a subtle layer of raspberry jam. This vintage-style dessert is a nostalgic favorite often found in family recipe boxes. Beloved for its tangy-sweet flavor profile and contrasting textures, it's perfect for spring gatherings, potlucks, or as a light finish to a meal. The combination of raspberry and lemon provides a bright, fresh taste that makes it stand out among classic bar desserts.
Ingredients
Crust:
- ¾ cup Crisco (or butter)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed )
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
Filling:
- ½ cup raspberry jam
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (large )
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp grated lemon peel
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Beat Crisco and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add flour and oats, mixing well.
- Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until light brown.
- Spread raspberry jam over hot crust.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and flour at medium speed until fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.
- Add lemon juice and grated peel; mix until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour filling over the raspberry jam layer.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until set.
- Cool completely. Refrigerate before cutting into squares.
Tips
- Swap raspberry jam for strawberry, blueberry, or apricot for different flavor profiles.
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the cheesecake filling for extra depth.
- Use butter instead of Crisco if preferred; crust will be richer and slightly crumblier.
- For added texture, mix ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans) into the crust.
- Add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest for a brighter, tangier flavor.
- Chill overnight for the cleanest, firmest slices.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal from the pan.
- Dust finished squares with powdered sugar before serving.
- Replace rolled oats with quick oats if needed (texture will be slightly softer).
- Add a thin lemon glaze on top after cooling for enhanced lemon flavor.
Nutrition
Serving: 1squareCalories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 6.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 105mgPotassium: 65mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 0.7mg
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