Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Squares are a go-to dessert for anyone who enjoys a burst of citrus flavor. The crispy, buttery crust contrasts perfectly with the tangy lemon filling, which is both sweet and tart. This dessert is easy to make and incredibly satisfying, with each bite offering a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you want a light treat. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and can be made in advance, making them an ideal dessert for entertaining or family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
Pinch of salt

For the filling:

1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the squares: Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake the squares in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
Cool and dust: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Lemon Squares to cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.
Serve: Slice the Lemon Squares into squares or bars and serve!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 squares
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Cool Time: 1 hour

Variations

Fruit Infusions: Add a little lime or orange zest to the filling for a citrus twist, or combine lemon with other fruits such as raspberries or blueberries for added flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust to make these Lemon Squares gluten-free.
Lemon Meringue: Top the lemon filling with a fluffy meringue for a lemon meringue pie-inspired version of this dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Lemon Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Reheating: Lemon Squares are best served chilled or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat them, but you can slightly warm them in the microwave if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I make these Lemon Squares ahead of time?

Yes! These Lemon Squares are perfect for making in advance. You can prepare them a day or two ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

Fresh lemon juice is best for the most vibrant flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch if fresh lemons aren’t available.

3. Can I make the crust without powdered sugar?

Yes, you can use regular granulated sugar in place of powdered sugar, but the crust may have a slightly different texture and sweetness.

4. Can I freeze Lemon Squares?

Yes, Lemon Squares freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

5. How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling should be firm but slightly jiggly in the center when done. It will firm up further as it cools.

6. Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger lemon flavor?

Yes, you can add more lemon zest to intensify the lemon flavor. Just be sure to taste the filling to make sure it’s not too overpowering.

7. Can I use a different type of flour for the crust?

Yes, you can experiment with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust gluten-free or lower in carbs.

8. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure the crust is fully baked and slightly golden before adding the lemon filling. This helps create a barrier to prevent sogginess.

9. What if I don’t have a 9×9-inch pan?

You can use an 8×8-inch or 10×10-inch pan, but adjust the baking time slightly. A smaller pan may require more baking time, while a larger pan will require less.

10. Can I top these squares with whipped cream or berries?

Yes! Whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of raspberry sauce can make a lovely topping for Lemon Squares if you want to add an extra touch.

Conclusion

Lemon Squares are a bright and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tangy lemon filling and buttery crust, they provide the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these squares are a must-try for citrus lovers. Whether you’re preparing them for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, Lemon Squares are sure to be a hit!

Lemon Squares

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Author: Ava
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12-16 squares
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Lemon Squares are a classic, refreshing dessert that combines a buttery, flaky crust with a smooth, tart lemon filling, offering the perfect balance of sweet and sour. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the squares: Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake the squares in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
Cool and dust: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Lemon Squares to cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.
Serve: Slice the Lemon Squares into squares or bars and serve!

Notes

Add a little lime or orange zest to the filling for a citrus twist, or combine lemon with raspberries or blueberries for added flavor.
To make these squares gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust.
For a lemon meringue twist, top the lemon filling with a fluffy meringue before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 160
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 40mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg