Creamy Lemon Squares

Creamy Lemon Squares are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, a delightful treat for those who appreciate the refreshing taste of lemon. This recipe takes the classic lemon bar to a new level of creaminess and flavor. With a buttery shortbread crust and a luscious lemon filling, these squares are a little slice of citrusy heaven.

Ingredients:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• A pinch of salt

For the Creamy Lemon Filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3-4 lemons)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Mix until the dough comes together. It will be crumbly but should hold its shape when pressed together.
3. Press the shortbread dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

1. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Lemon Filling

1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.
2. In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Add this mixture to the eggs and sugar, and whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Pour the Filling Over the Crust

1. Pour the creamy lemon filling over the slightly cooled shortbread crust.

Step 6: Bake Again

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

1. Allow the creamy lemon squares to cool completely in the pan.
2. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar.

Step 8: Cut and Serve

1. Cut the squares into your desired size and shape.
2. Serve and enjoy!

Notes:

• If you’d like an extra tangy flavor, you can add more lemon juice or zest to the filling.
• These creamy lemon squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
• A little tip for cleaner slices: Run a knife under hot water before cutting the squares. It helps create neater cuts.

Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy, with a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. They’re perfect for any occasion, from a simple afternoon snack to a sophisticated dessert for special gatherings. The vibrant lemon flavor and buttery shortbread crust make these squares a zesty delight for lemon lovers everywhere.