Cream Squares with Lemon and Coconut

Introduction

Craving a delightful treat that’s both tangy and subtly sweet? Look no further than these delectable Cream Squares with Lemon and Coconut! This recipe perfectly balances the refreshing zest of lemon with the tropical sweetness of coconut, all nestled in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth square. Ideal for afternoon tea, bake sales, or simply a satisfying dessert, these squares are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal baking experience and uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite!

Cream Squares with Lemon and Coconut: The Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• For the Filling:
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• ½ cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened (your preference!)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and cold water. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking pan that has been lined with parchment paper. This parchment paper overhang will allow for easy removal after baking.
4. Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Make the Filling: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut.
7. Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the partially baked crust and spread evenly.
8. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center may still be slightly wobbly, but it will firm up as it cools.
9. Cool and Chill: Let the cream squares cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover the pan and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Chilling allows the filling to set properly.
10. Lift the squares out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Cream Squares

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is crucial for creating a flaky crust. If the butter starts to soften, pop it back into the freezer for a few minutes.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust. Mix only until the dough just comes together.
• Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Using fresh lemon juice and zest will significantly enhance the flavor of the filling. Avoid using bottled lemon juice for the best results.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. Conversely, if you like it sweeter, add a tablespoon or two more.
• Variations: Get creative! Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top before baking for extra coconut flavor and texture. You can also substitute lime for lemon for a different citrusy twist. Consider adding a thin layer of raspberry jam between the crust and the filling.

Conclusion

These Cream Squares with Lemon and Coconut are a truly delightful dessert that’s easy to make and always a hit. The combination of the buttery crust, creamy lemon filling, and tropical coconut is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want a delicious treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create these heavenly squares – you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy!