Easy Lemon Squares Recipe: Tangy, Sweet, and Irresistible Dessert Bars
These lemon squares are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a creamy lemon filling. They’re easy to make, bursting with fresh lemon flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a refreshing treat, these lemon squares are a must-try!
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
40 minutes
Calories:
Approximately 200 kcal per square
ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
Zest of 2 lemons
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions——————
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Lemon Filling: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until smooth. Add the flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and whisk until well combined.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Chill: Let the lemon squares cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Serve: Lift the lemon squares out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, the taste may not be as vibrant.How do I store lemon squares?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and filling.Why is my filling not setting?
Ensure you bake the filling until the edges are golden and the center is no longer jiggly. If underbaked, the filling may not set properly.Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Tools You'll Need
9×13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Electric mixer or hand mixer
Zester or grater
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack
Tips
Use fresh, high-quality lemons for the best flavor.
For a smoother filling, strain the lemon juice to remove pulp and seeds.
Let the squares chill thoroughly before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Allergy Information
Contains gluten (all-purpose flour).
Contains dairy (butter).
Contains eggs.
Conclusion
These lemon squares are a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons with a buttery, crumbly crust. They’re simple to make yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Give this recipe a try and let the vibrant flavors brighten your day! Don’t forget to share your results—we’d love to hear how they turned out. Happy baking!
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