Mom'S Lemon Squares
Delightful lemon squares feature a buttery crust with a sweet, tangy lemon filling, perfect for a tasty treat at parties or with afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the coconut, cracker crumbs, sugar, baking powder, flour, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and combine until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a slightly greased 8 x 8 inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
- Allow to cool before adding lemon filling and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, you can substitute shredded almond or pecan meal for the coconut if you prefer a different flavor. If you want a sweeter base, increase the sugar slightly. Ensure your butter is fully melted for the best consistency. For an added twist, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest to the crust for extra lemon flavor, which pairs beautifully with Best Coconut Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon squares can be dusted with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish. They pair well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. For a refreshing drink, serve alongside Pink Parfait Punch for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven at a low temperature, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Lemon Squares contains roughly 672 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% 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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour to accommodate dietary preferences. Just ensure that the texture remains crumbly when mixed with the other ingredients, as this is crucial for the base.
How do I know when the bottom crust is done baking?
The bottom crust should be golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning, as ovens can vary. A toothpick inserted into the crust will also come out clean when it’s ready.
Can I add more coconut to the recipe?
Absolutely! If you love coconut, feel free to increase the amount up to 1 cup for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture, so ensure all other ingredients are balanced accordingly.
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).