If you are craving a dessert that is bright, tangy, and satisfyingly sweet, you have to try this Lemon Squares Recipe. It is a classic treat that brings together a buttery, tender crust and a luscious, citrusy filling with just the right balance of tartness and sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to serve at a family gathering or a delightful snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this Lemon Squares Recipe is sure to become your new go-to. The fresh lemon juice and zest elevate each bite, making the flavors pop in the most refreshing way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Squares Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that are essential to achieving that perfect combination of textures and flavors. Each element plays a vital role in creating a dessert that is both comforting and exciting.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base for the buttery crust that holds everything together.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness to the crust and ensures a smooth dusting on top.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates a rich, flaky crumb in the crust when cut into the flour mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors in the crust.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Essential for the silky, rich filling and for binding the ingredients.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the lemon filling perfectly without overpowering the tartness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Adds structure to the filling and helps it set properly.
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings bright, tangy citrus flavor that distinguishes this dessert.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Infuses the filling with aromatic oils and intensifies the lemon flavor.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a beautiful finishing touch and light sweetness on top.
How to Make Lemon Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for an easy release later on. Combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl, then cut the cold butter into this mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for creating a crisp yet tender crust. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake it for 18 to 20 minutes until it turns lightly golden. The warm crust will perfectly hold the luscious lemon filling in the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Lemon Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl until smooth and well combined. This velvety mixture is the heart of your Lemon Squares Recipe, delivering that beautiful balance of bright, zesty flavors with just the right touch of sweetness and texture.
Step 3: Bake the Lemon Filling
Once your crust has baked and is still hot, pour the lemon filling evenly over it. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. This ensures a perfect firm-yet-soft consistency that melts in your mouth with each bite.
Step 4: Cool and Dust
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the lemon squares to cool completely. For the cleanest slices, refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares. Finally, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet, decorative finish that shines beautifully against the yellow filling.
How to Serve Lemon Squares Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes can really elevate your Lemon Squares Recipe presentation. Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top for a burst of fresh aroma. A few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can brighten the look and add a touch of elegance. For a more indulgent treat, a dollop of whipped cream pairs wonderfully with the tangy squares.
Side Dishes
Lemon squares are incredibly versatile and work well alongside many accompaniments. Cupcakes, berries, or vanilla ice cream all complement the tart citrus flavors. For a more casual setting, serve these with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee to help balance the sweetness with a warm, comforting drink.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your lemon squares on a rustic wooden board dusted lightly with powdered sugar and scattered lemon slices. You could also stack them in a beautiful tiered dessert stand for parties, or serve individual squares in decorative cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go bites. Presentation is such a fun way to make this Lemon Squares Recipe even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lemon squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep them chilled to maintain their fresh flavor and firm texture. This makes for a perfect treat to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends and family.
Freezing
You can freeze lemon squares by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the delicate lemon flavor and moist texture.
Reheating
For room temperature enjoyment, simply remove the thawed or refrigerated lemon squares ahead of time to soften slightly. If you prefer a warm treat, gently heat individual squares in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this might affect the texture of the citrus filling.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for this Lemon Squares Recipe because it provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor that really makes the dessert stand out.
How do I get clean slices when cutting lemon squares?
Chill the lemon squares in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. This helps keep the edges neat and prevents the filling from sticking to your knife.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be mindful that the texture might vary slightly, but the delicious lemon flavor will remain intact.
Is it possible to make these dairy-free?
Absolutely. Replace unsalted butter with a solid coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The crust might have a slightly different texture, but the taste will still be delightful.
How long do lemon squares last at room temperature?
It is best to store lemon squares in the refrigerator due to the egg content in the filling. At room temperature, they should be consumed within 2 hours for food safety reasons.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Squares Recipe is a timeless dessert that feels like sunshine on your plate. Its combination of a buttery crust and a tangy, sweet lemon filling makes it utterly irresistible. I encourage you to try making these bright and zesty squares at home—you’ll find they quickly become a treasured favorite for any occasion. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share this delicious joy with those you care about!
Print
Lemon Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 43 minutes (18-20 minutes crust + 20-25 minutes filling)
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Lemon Squares featuring a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling dusted with powdered sugar. This easy-to-make American dessert is perfect for citrus lovers and makes delightful sweet treats for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fingers until it becomes crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until it turns lightly golden on the edges.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together 2 large room temperature eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Add Filling to Crust: Remove the hot crust from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling evenly over it.
- Bake the Filling: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the lemon filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
- Cool and Dust: Take the lemon squares out of the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.
- Slice and Serve: For neat slices, refrigerate the lemon squares for 30 minutes before cutting into 9 squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For clean, sharp slices, refrigerate the lemon squares for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and tart flavor in the lemon filling.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling texture.
- Lining the pan with parchment paper helps in easy removal and less mess.
