Indulge in Citrus Bliss: Creamy Lemon Squares Recipe

Lemon squares are the epitome of citrusy delight, combining zesty lemon flavor with a creamy texture atop a crumbly crust. These Creamy Lemon Squares offer a burst of sunshine in every bite. Perfect for a refreshing treat on a warm afternoon or as a delightful ending to any meal, these squares are sure to brighten your day. Let’s dive into the recipe and unlock the secrets to creating this heavenly dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Filling:

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

For the Crust:

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
4 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

2. Make the Lemon Filling:

In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

3. Bake and Chill:

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely chilled and set.

4. Slice and Serve:

Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the lemon bars into squares.
Serve chilled, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Zesty Twist: Add lemon zest to the filling for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
Shortbread Crust: Substitute the graham cracker crust with a classic shortbread crust for a buttery base.
Lime Variation: Swap lemon juice with lime juice for tangy Lime Squares.
Coconut Crust: Mix shredded coconut into the crust mixture for a tropical twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

A: While fresh lemon juice offers the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure it’s 100% pure lemon juice without any added sweeteners or preservatives.

Q: How should I store leftover lemon squares?

A: Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for optimal freshness. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I make these lemon squares ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Lemon squares actually taste better when chilled, so they’re perfect for making ahead of time. Bake and chill them the day before serving for easy entertaining.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers or almond meal for the crust to make these lemon squares gluten-free.

Keto Versions:

Almond Flour Crust: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour mixed with melted butter for a keto-friendly crust.
Sugar Substitute: Use a keto-approved sweetener in place of sugar in both the crust and filling.

Low-Carb Versions:

Coconut Flour Crust: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with coconut flour for a low-carb crust option.
Stevia Sweetener: Use powdered stevia or erythritol instead of sugar for a low-carb sweetener alternative.

Indulge your senses with the tangy sweetness of these Creamy Lemon Squares. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a summer picnic, or simply craving a delightful dessert, these lemon squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With their creamy lemon filling and buttery crust, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Get ready to elevate your dessert game with this timeless classic that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.