Creamy Lemon Squares Recipe

Creamy Lemon Squares

Introduction

These Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful balance of tangy and sweet, with a luscious lemon filling atop a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or as a refreshing treat any time of year. Their smooth, creamy texture and bright citrus flavor make them an irresistible dessert!

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Lemon zest or thin lemon slices
  • Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan. Line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually mix in flour and salt until a crumbly dough forms.
  4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until smooth.
  2. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
  3. Pour the lemon mixture over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

Step 3: Cool and Serve

  1. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
  2. Once chilled, remove from the pan and cut into squares.
  3. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon zest or mint leaves.
  4. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t provide the same brightness.
  • Chill completely before slicing to get clean, neat squares.
  • Double the batch in a 9×13-inch pan for a larger serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Variations

  • Berry Lemon Squares: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries to the filling.
  • Coconut Lemon Bars: Mix in 1/2 cup shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

These Creamy Lemon Squares are an easy yet elegant dessert that brightens up any occasion. Their smooth, citrusy filling and buttery crust make them a timeless favorite. Try them today and savor the zesty goodness!

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