Description
These Easy Lemon Squares are a delightful treat featuring a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a tangy, sweet lemon filling. Perfect for any occasion, they combine a bright citrus flavor with a soft, custard-like texture, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. Ready in under an hour, these squares are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Lemon Filling
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter. Mix them together until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly blended.
- Press and Bake the Crust: Press the crumbly dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the crust turns lightly golden.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together 2 large eggs and 3/4 cup granulated sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
- Add Remaining Filling Ingredients: To the egg and sugar mixture, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk everything together until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake Lemon Squares: Once the crust is baked, pour the prepared lemon filling evenly over the hot crust in the baking pan. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: Remove the lemon squares from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to set properly. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into 9 equal squares and serve. These squares are great as a refreshing dessert or a sweet snack.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a better crust texture.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice can alter the taste.
- You can adjust the sugar in the filling to make it more or less sweet based on your preference.
- Use parchment paper lining to make it easier to lift the lemon bars out of the pan for slicing and serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
