“lemon Squares”
Indulge in the bright and zesty flavors of lemon squares, a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. These luscious bars feature a buttery crust topped with a smooth lemon filling, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Ideal for gatherings or a sunny afternoon treat, lemon squares are a timeless favorite that will leave your taste buds dancing. Follow this simple recipe to create a batch that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
Makes approximately 16 squares. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 25 minutes. Total time: 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (1 lemon square) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g fat, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
- Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
- Add lemon zest, baking powder, and salt to the egg mixture.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes until set.
- Let cool and dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, use agave nectar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index sweetener. Experimenting with different citrus juices like lime or orange can also add a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
Lemon squares are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overbaking can lead to a dry texture; keep an eye on the timer.
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the zest; it enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste.
- Make sure to cool completely before slicing to avoid messy squares.
Helpful Tips
- For a decorative touch, add thin lemon slices on top before serving.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal.
- Experiment with adding a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Letting the squares chill in the fridge enhances their flavor.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, while fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just ensure it’s 100% lemon juice without additives.
How do I know when the lemon squares are done?
The lemon filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I make lemon squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lemon squares can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I do if my squares are too tart?
If they are too tart for your taste, you can add a bit more sugar to the filling next time or serve with sweetened whipped cream to balance the tartness.
Are lemon squares gluten-free?
Traditional lemon squares contain flour, but you can easily make them gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.
Conclusion
Lemon squares are a delightful dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion. With their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Whether for a family gathering or a simple treat at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every tangy bite!
Lemon Squares
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
- Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
- Add lemon zest, baking powder, and salt to the egg mixture.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes until set.
- Let cool and dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.