Lemon Squares
Lemon Squares offer a delightful balance of buttery shortbread crust and tangy lemon filling, making them perfect for citrus lovers. Their bright flavor and crisp texture suit parties, picnics, or a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal, bringing a zesty, sweet finish to any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix flour, soft butter, and powdered sugar, then press into an ungreased 9x9 or 8x8-inch pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes.
- While crust is baking, beat the eggs, sugar, grated lemon peel (if using), lemon juice, baking powder, and salt until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes until set.
- Let cool, then sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the grated lemon peel to 1 tablespoon. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought crust instead of making your own. For a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing, and consider using organic lemons for better taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lemon squares dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful finish. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These squares also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter alongside treats like Pineapple Cheesecake Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. For best results, allow them to reach room temperature before enjoying, as this enhances their flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Squares contains roughly 137 calories, with 1g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% 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 bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, it may lack the brightness and freshness that freshly squeezed juice provides. Always taste the mixture before baking to ensure the flavor is to your liking.
What should I do if my lemon filling is too runny?
If your lemon filling seems runny, it could be due to undercooking. Make sure to bake the squares until the filling is set and no longer jiggles. If it's still too runny after cooling, you can return them to the oven for a few additional minutes. Alternatively, you can add a little more flour to the filling next time for a thicker consistency.
How can I make these lemon squares more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider garnishing your lemon squares with thin lemon slices or candied lemon peel. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves for color. A drizzle of lemon glaze or a light dusting of additional powdered sugar can elevate their appearance, making them perfect for gatherings.
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).