Imperial Lemon Squares
Imperial Lemon Squares offer a delightful balance of buttery crust and tangy lemon filling, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for dessert gatherings or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixer, blend together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 2 sticks of butter, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into a 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- While the crust is baking, juice the two small lemons and remove seeds.
- In a bowl, beat 4 eggs with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the lemon juice and 1 cup of sugar to the egg mixture, stirring well.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. If you prefer a sweeter lemon filling, you can reduce the granulated sugar to 3/4 cup. Make sure to zest the lemons before juicing for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Also, if you're out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, though fresh is always best.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon squares dusted with additional powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing twist, consider serving them alongside a cup of herbal tea or as a sweet treat during a brunch featuring A Wonderful Plain Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Imperial Lemon Squares contains roughly 1066 calories, with 13g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2395mg per serving (104% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lemons with limes or oranges for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity of the citrus will affect the overall taste, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
What if I don't have a mixer? Can I mix by hand?
Absolutely! You can mix the crust ingredients by hand using a fork or pastry cutter. Just ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing. It may take a little more effort, but the result will still be delicious.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center and has a slightly firm texture. You can also test it by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
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).