Giada's Limoncello Cheesecake Squares

Indulge in the bright and zesty flavors of Giada's Limoncello Cheesecake Squares, a sophisticated yet approachable dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a luxuriously creamy filling infused with the sunny essence of limoncello, fresh lemon juice, and fragrant lemon zest, these cheesecake squares deliver a refreshing citrus twist that's sure to impress. Baked to perfection and chilled for a dense, velvety texture, each square is finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. With just 20 minutes of prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe balances gourmet appeal with simplicity, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties or an easy make-ahead treat. Whether you're a cheesecake connoisseur or a lover of lemon desserts, these luscious squares are bound to become a favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 39/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (for crust)
• 16 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Granulated sugar (for filling)
• 3 Large eggs
• 0.25 cup Limoncello liqueur
• 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon Powdered sugar (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until evenly combined.

Step 3

Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 6

Mix in the limoncello, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and flour until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 7

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 8

Bake the cheesecake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.

Step 9

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set.

Step 10

Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Step 11

Dust the squares with powdered sugar before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1201.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4255.2

Total Fat 249.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 141.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 1215.2mg	0%
Sodium 2770.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 440.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.1g	0%
Total Sugars 315.8g
Protein 61.2g	0%

Vitamin D 120IU	0%
Calcium 664.3mg	0%
Iron 11.9mg	0%
Potassium 1025.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.8%

Protein: 5.8%

Carbs: 41.4%