Easy Lemon Squares
Sweet and tangy lemon squares with a buttery crust and zesty lemon filling, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for afternoon tea or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1/3 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of softened butter.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups of sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, and lemon juice (add lemon extract if more lemon flavor is desired).
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let the lemon squares cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the filling. If you're out of butter, you can substitute with coconut oil or margarine. To enhance the texture, try adding a pinch of salt to the crust mixture. Be careful not to overbake the filling; it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center, similar to recipes like Mammy'S Chocolate Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon squares can be dusted with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them a delightful dessert after a meal. They also make a great accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee, perfect for a light snack or brunch alongside Light Pumpkin Pancakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To serve after freezing, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Lemon Squares contains roughly 302 calories, with 6g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these lemon squares in advance?
Yes, lemon squares can be made a day ahead of time. After baking and cooling, cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to dust with powdered sugar right before serving for the best presentation.
What can I use instead of flour for a gluten-free version?
For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the elasticity of gluten. This substitution works well for both the crust and filling, allowing everyone to enjoy these lemon squares.
How can I make my lemon squares more tart?
To increase the tartness, simply add more lemon juice to the filling. Start with an additional tablespoon and adjust to your taste. You can also add lemon zest to amplify the citrus flavor without altering the texture. This will give your lemon squares a refreshing, tangy kick that lemon lovers will appreciate.
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).