Buttery Lemon Squares
Buttery Lemon Squares offer a zesty, sweet-tart flavor with a tender crust and a smooth lemon filling, perfect for lemon lovers and sweet snack enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until creamy.
- Add 2 1/3 cups flour; beat until blended.
- Spread evenly in a well-greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Beat eggs until light and frothy.
- Add 2 cups granulated sugar; beat until thick and well blended.
- Add lemon juice, 1/3 cup flour, and baking powder; beat until blended.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar and let cool.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled juice if needed, but fresh gives the best taste. If you prefer a thicker crust, reduce the lemon filling slightly. Make sure to beat the eggs well to incorporate air for a lighter texture. For a hint of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
These buttery lemon squares are perfect for a refreshing dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack during the day. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an elegant touch, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter at gatherings or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them by wrapping in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttery Lemon Squares contains roughly 290 calories, with 3g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of citrus juice?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the sweetness and tartness will vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly if you use a sweeter juice like orange.
How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to bake the crust until it's lightly golden before adding the lemon filling. Also, avoid overmixing the filling, which can introduce excess moisture. Allowing the lemon squares to cool completely before cutting will also help maintain the texture.
Can I make these lemon squares gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).