Gloria'S Lemon Squares
Gloria's Lemon Squares are a delightful citrus treat featuring a buttery crust topped with a tangy lemon filling. Perfect for dessert or tea time, their bright flavor and tender texture make them a crowd-pleaser for gatherings and family occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, butter, and powdered sugar together to form the crust mixture.
- Press the mixture into an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust at 350°F for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, baking powder, and salt to make the lemon filling.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake again at 350°F until the filling is set, about 15-20 minutes.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zestier flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling. If you're out of powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar in a blender until fine. Ensure your crust is evenly pressed to avoid uneven baking, and check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; the filling should not jiggle too much. These lemon squares pair beautifully with Quick Banana Pudding for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lemon squares dusted with additional powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They are delightful on their own or can be paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving them alongside a fruit salad. These treats are perfect for gatherings or as a sweet finish to a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to reheat, do so in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warmed, being careful not to overheat and alter the texture. They can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gloria'S Lemon Squares contains roughly 412 calories, with 8g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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 instead of lemon?
Absolutely! You can substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile. Each citrus will provide a unique taste and sweetness, so adjust the sugar accordingly based on your preference. Just ensure to balance the acidity for the best results.
How can I tell when the lemon filling is set?
If you find the filling is still too liquid after the recommended baking time, extend the baking by 2-3 minutes at a time until it reaches the desired doneness.
Can I make these lemon squares ahead of time?
Yes, lemon squares can be made a day in advance. Once cooled, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just dust with powdered sugar right before serving for a fresh presentation.
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).