Cheesecake Cookie Squares

Family favorite! I usually make these around Christmas time and if I don't- I'm in big trouble!

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 15
• Yields: 15 squares

Ingredients

• 2  cups all-purpose flour
• 1  cup  packed brown sugar
• 3⁄4 cup butter, softened
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 2  eggs
• 4  tablespoons milk
• 1⁄2 teaspoon  finely shredded lemon peel (optional)
• 3  tablespoons lemon juice
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 4  tablespoons  chopped walnuts

Directions

1. .Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in butter till mixture forms fine crumbs.
2. Reserve 1 cup crumb mixture for topping. press remainder in bottom of ungreased 9x13 pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a mixer bowl, cream the cheese and granulated sugar. add eggs, milk, lemon peel, lemon juice and vanilla. Mix well and pour over partially cooked crumb crust. Combine nuts with reserved crumbs and sprinkle over top. Bake in 350 degree oven 20-25 minutes.
4. Cool, cut into squares and enjoy!