CHEESECAKE PRALINE SQUARES

These squares are out of this world good, a smooth cheesecake layer, a nutty crust, and praline-like topping make this dessert extra special. I made this dessert to serve at a baby shower and I got a lot of requests for the recipe not to mention everyone looking for seconds. It was a good thing I made two! Try it, I am sure you will also love it.

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2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup butter, melted
2/3 cup finely chopped pecans
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

Filling:

3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
2/3 cups sugar
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel
4 eggs, lightly beaten

Topping:

1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup chopped pecans
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

In a bowl, combine the flour, butter, pecans and confectioners' sugar. Press into an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Bake at 350 F. for 20-24 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the milk, vanilla and lemon peel. Add eggs, beat on low speed just until combined. Pour over crust. Bake at 350 F. for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack.
In a saucepan, combine brown sugar and cream. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in pecans and vanilla. Pour over cheesecake. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Cut into squares. Yield: 15 servings. Enjoy!!