Delicious Maple Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
Par Amelia Feuss.
Experience the delightful blend of tangy cream cheese and sweet maple in these squares, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Préparation:
30 min
Cuisson:
40 min
Total:
Portions:
9 squares
Cuisine:
American
#desserts
#maple
#cream cheese
#squares
If you’re looking to impress your friends or family with a delightful and decadent treat, look no further than this delicious Maple Cream Cheese Squares recipe. These squares are not just any average dessert—they’re a celebration of maple flavors combined with the creaminess of cheese. This easy dessert recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a go-to for any occasion, be it a family gathering or a cozy night in. The rich maple syrup brings warmth to the dish while the cream cheese layer adds a luscious texture that is hard to resist. Plus, the addition of crushed toasted pecans gives each bite a delightful crunch. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this scrumptious maple dessert that will surely become a family favorite.
Ingrédients
- 140g (1 cup) Graham cracker crumbs
- 15ml (1 tbsp) unbleached all-purpose flour
- 2.5ml (1/2 tsp) baking powder
- 105g (1/2 cup) brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 125ml (1/2 cup) milk
- 15ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 250g cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 eggs
- 75ml (1/3 cup) maple syrup
- 60ml (1/4 cup) sour cream
- 75ml (1/3 cup) maple butter
- 50g (1/2 cup) crushed toasted pecans
À propos des ingrédients
About These Ingredients When making these maple cream cheese squares, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. The Graham cracker crumbs create a wonderfully sweet yet slightly nutty base, while brown sugar adds depth over regular sugar. For the cream cheese layer, make sure to use cream cheese that has been softened to room temperature—this ensures that it blends seamlessly into the mixture, resulting in a smooth and creamy filling. The star ingredient, maple syrup, is what elevates this recipe; go for pure maple syrup for the best flavor. The sour cream adds a slight tang, balancing the sweetness perfectly. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, don’t hesitate to substitute with dairy-free alternatives; there are many great cream cheese options available. Finally, the crushed toasted pecans not only add texture but also a rich flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Instructions
- Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 20cm (8-inch) square baking dish and line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the edges.
- In a bowl, combine the Graham cracker crumbs with flour and baking powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and egg. Add the milk and oil, mixing well. Incorporate the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is smooth. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with the flour using an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until fully blended. Pour in the maple syrup and sour cream, mixing well.
- Spread the cream cheese filling over the baked layer. Continue baking for an additional 18 minutes. The center should still be slightly wobbly. Allow to cool for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 2 hours or until fully chilled. Optionally, cover and freeze at this stage.
- To serve, use a spatula to evenly spread the maple butter over the cream cheese filling. Sprinkle with pecans and gently press them in. Cut into 9 squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Conseils de cuisson
Cooking Tips To create the best maple cream cheese squares, always preheat your oven to the correct temperature, as baking times can vary. Use a light hand when mixing the batter to avoid overworking the flour, which can lead to a dense texture. Be sure to let the squares cool completely before attempting to slice; this ensures clean cuts and helps the filling set properly. When spreading the cream cheese layer, take your time to create an even distribution for consistent flavor in every square. Remember, the center should still be slightly wobbly when you take it out of the oven—this is perfectly fine as the squares will continue to set in the fridge. If you prefer sharing these treats, cut them into bite-sized squares for easy serving. Lastly, don’t forget the final twist: the maple butter topping and toasted pecans make for an attractive garnish that will dazzle your guests.
Conseils de chef
- 💡 Don’t have Graham cracker crumbs? You can substitute with digestive biscuits or even oreo crumbs for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
- 💡 If you're short on time, mix the crust ingredients with a fork rather than blending separately. It won't be as finely crumbed, but will still work well.
- 💡 Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese layer for an extra depth of flavor—it pairs beautifully with maple syrup.
- 💡 Make these squares ahead of time and freeze them without the maple butter topping. Just thaw and top them before serving for a fresher taste.
- 💡 For a fun twist, try blending in some chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for an added richness. It pairs surprisingly well with maple!
- 💡 Using a mix of different nuts like walnuts or almonds can offer a unique flavor and texture to these squares.
- 💡 If you're looking to cut down on sugar, try reducing the brown sugar in the crust and keeping the maple syrup in the filling for that authentic flavor.
- 💡 These maple cream cheese squares pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal choice for brunch or afternoon snacks.
Questions fréquentes
How to make maple cream cheese squares?
Start by preparing the crust with Graham cracker crumbs and baking it. Then, mix the cream cheese filling and pour it over the baked crust. After baking, chill and serve with maple butter and pecans.
How long do maple cream cheese squares last?
These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature!
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts, hazelnuts, or even almonds for a nice variation, depending on your preference.
Do I have to use sour cream?
Sour cream enhances the texture and flavor, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a slightly healthier option without sacrificing taste.
What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup?
If maple syrup is unavailable, honey or agave syrup can work as substitutes, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free Graham cracker crumbs to ensure that this decadent dessert fits your dietary needs.
