Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: creamy lemon squares! These little bites of sunshine are the perfect balance of tangy lemon flavor and a smooth, rich texture that just melts in your mouth. I remember the first time I made them; the smell of fresh lemon juice filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. They’re super easy to whip up—trust me, you’ll impress everyone with minimal effort! Every time I serve these creamy lemon squares, they disappear faster than I can say, “Who wants seconds?” You’ll want to make these again and again!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy!)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (the fresher, the better!)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (don’t skip this—it adds so much flavor!)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

How to Prepare Creamy Lemon Squares

Getting ready to make these creamy lemon squares is super simple, and I promise you’ll love how they come together! Let’s break it down step by step to make sure everything flows smoothly, from preheating the oven to letting those squares cool perfectly. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want your squares to bake evenly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Use a fork or your fingers to mix it all together until it forms a crumbly dough. It should look a bit like wet sand.
3. Next, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s even—this will be your crust, so a solid base is key!
4. Bake the crust in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. The aroma will start drifting through your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!
5. While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder in another bowl. Make sure there are no lumps—this mixture should be nice and smooth!
6. Once your crust is done, pour that luscious lemon mixture right over it. Be gentle here; you don’t want to disturb the crust too much.
7. Pop it back into the oven for another 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Keep an eye on it—no one likes overcooked lemon squares!
8. After baking, let your creamy lemon squares cool completely in the dish. This is super important, as it helps them firm up properly. Once they’re cool, cut them into squares and dust with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness!

Nutritional Information

Now, if you’re curious about what’s in these delicious creamy lemon squares, I’ve got you covered! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per square. Keep in mind these values are approximate, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 2g

These creamy lemon squares are a delightful treat that can fit into a balanced diet, so go ahead and enjoy a square (or two)! Just remember, moderation is key—though I won’t judge if you can’t resist going back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute dessert cravings!
• Deliciously tangy flavor that brightens up any occasion.
• Smooth, creamy texture that just melts in your mouth.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
• Great for sharing or bringing to gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
• Perfectly dusted with powdered sugar for that touch of elegance.
• Can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge—just slice and serve!

Tips for Success

Getting those creamy lemon squares just right can be a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve! I’ve learned a thing or two over the years, and I’m excited to share my secrets for success with you!

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your squares while they bake. Ovens can be tricky, and every minute counts! You want them set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, and we definitely don’t want that!
• Cool Completely: Patience is key! Let your squares cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them. This helps them firm up nicely and makes for cleaner cuts. Trust me, waiting is worth it!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest truly make a difference in flavor. It’s worth the extra effort to squeeze those lemons yourself for that bright, zesty punch!
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a touch of elegance, dust your squares with powdered sugar just before serving. Not only does it look pretty, but it also adds a lovely sweetness that complements the tanginess of the lemon.
• Experiment with Flavor: Don’t be afraid to play around! You can add a bit of vanilla extract or even a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Every little tweak can take your squares to the next level!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious creamy lemon squares that will have everyone coming back for more! Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with your creamy lemon squares! Here are some ideas that might just inspire you to get creative in the kitchen!

• Orange Zest and Juice: Swap out the lemon for fresh orange juice and zest for a sweeter, citrusy twist. It’s like a sunny vacation in every bite!
• Lime Love: Use lime juice and zest instead for a refreshing take! The tangy flavor of lime adds a unique zing that’s simply delightful.
• Berry Swirl: Before baking, swirl in some raspberry or blueberry puree into the lemon mixture. You’ll get beautiful marbled squares with a burst of fruity goodness!
• Coconut Cream: Mix in some shredded coconut into the crust or the lemon filling for a tropical flair. It’ll add a lovely chewiness and a hint of sweetness!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled squares for a decadent touch. The combination of chocolate and lemon is surprisingly delightful!
• Herbal Infusion: Infuse your lemon squares with a hint of fresh herbs like basil or mint. Just toss in a few finely chopped leaves to the filling for a refreshing layer of flavor.
• Nutty Crust: Swap out half of the flour in the crust for almond flour or finely chopped nuts. It adds a lovely crunch and enhances the flavor profile beautifully!

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite twist on these creamy lemon squares! Each variation brings its own unique charm, and I can’t wait to hear which one you love the most!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these creamy lemon squares, the possibilities are endless! I love to get a bit creative and pair them with a few simple extras that really elevate the experience. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that you can try:

• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side adds a lovely burst of color and a juicy contrast to the tangy lemon flavor. Plus, they look gorgeous on the plate!
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is a classic pairing that brings a creamy richness to each bite. You can even add a hint of vanilla or lemon zest to the whipped cream for a fun twist!
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Serve your lemon squares with a refreshing glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade. The citrusy flavors complement each other beautifully, making for a delightful summer treat!
• Ice Cream: If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet on top of your lemon squares takes dessert to the next level. Just imagine that creamy goodness melting into the tangy squares—yum!
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce over your squares adds a decadent touch that pairs surprisingly well with the citrus. It’s a fun way to mix flavors and textures!
• Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves on top not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing aroma. It’s the perfect finishing touch for an elegant presentation!

So, when you whip up these creamy lemon squares, don’t forget to think about how you’ll serve them. These little extras can make a big difference, and they’ll surely impress everyone at the table! Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect pairing!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your creamy lemon squares properly is key to enjoying them at their best! Here’s how I like to keep them fresh and tasty:

• Refrigeration: After your lemon squares have cooled completely, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week—if they last that long, of course!
• Serving Cold: These squares are delightful straight from the fridge, making them a refreshing treat on warm days. The flavors actually develop even more as they sit, so feel free to make them a day ahead!
• Freezing: If you want to enjoy your creamy lemon squares later, they freeze beautifully! Just cut them into squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
• No Reheating Needed: There’s no need to reheat these squares; they’re best served chilled. But if you do want them a little softer, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Just be careful not to let them get too warm!

With these tips, you’ll be able to keep your creamy lemon squares fresh and ready to enjoy whenever the craving hits! Happy storing!

Creamy lemon squares: 7 reasons to crave this dessert

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 squares 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Creamy lemon squares are a delightful dessert with a tangy lemon flavor and a smooth, rich texture.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, butter, powdered sugar, and salt to form a crust.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
4. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder.
6. Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.
8. Let cool, then cut into squares.

Notes

• Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: creamy lemon squares, lemon dessert, easy lemon bars