Lemon Shortbread Squares
Lemon shortbread squares combine buttery texture with bright lemon flavor and toasted almonds, perfect for tea time, gatherings, or a delightful homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except almonds.
- Beat until dough is smooth, comes clean from the sides of the bowl, and gathers into a ball.
- With lightly floured fingers, press dough evenly over the bottom of a 9-inch square pan (ungreased).
- Sprinkle chopped almonds on top and press gently into the dough.
- Using a sharp knife, score into 16 small squares and prick each square twice with a fork.
- Bake until the dough is barely colored and almonds are lightly toasted, about 20 minutes.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then cut squares all the way through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the almonds or substitute with sunflower seeds. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing. If the dough feels too crumbly, a tablespoon of cold water can help bring it together.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon shortbread squares are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an elevated presentation, dust with additional confectioners' sugar before serving. They can be served as a light dessert after a meal or enjoyed as a sweet snack throughout the day. Consider serving alongside light desserts like Caramel Fried Ice Cream for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon shortbread squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in a low oven for a few minutes to restore their crisp texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Shortbread Squares contains roughly 158 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the squares denser. To maintain a lighter texture, you might consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor and texture but will still yield delicious results.
How can I make these squares more visually appealing?
To enhance their visual appeal, consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the squares after they cool. A mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice can create a beautiful finish that adds both flavor and a polished look.
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).