Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful dessert known for their zesty lemon flavor and smooth, creamy texture. They typically feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich lemon filling made from a combination of lemon juice, zest, eggs, and sugar. Once baked and chilled, these squares are dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for a refreshing treat, they balance tangy and sweet flavors beautifully and are ideal for summer gatherings or as a bright finish to any meal.
Creamy Lemon Squares
Recipe:
Ingredients:
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:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar for the crust. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even layer. Bake for around 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool for 30 mins.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Gradually add the fresh lemon juice to the egg yolk mixture, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for another 15 minutes until set. Remove and cool for at least 1 hour until set.
Once chilled, carefully remove the lemon squares from the pan using the parchment paper, if using, and cut them into squares.
Enjoy the creamy and tangy goodness of your homemade Creamy Lemon Squares! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Berry Lemon Squares: Add a layer of mixed berries (like raspberries or blueberries) on top of the lemon filling before baking for a fruity twist.
- Ginger Lemon Squares: Incorporate ground ginger or finely chopped crystallized ginger into the lemon filling or crust for a warm, spicy note.
- Coconut Lemon Squares: Mix shredded coconut into the crust or topping for a tropical flavor and added texture.
- Lavender Lemon Squares: Infuse the lemon filling with dried lavender buds for a floral touch.
- Gluten-Free Lemon Squares: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the crust to make these squares suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Tips:
- Chill Before Cutting: Allow the lemon squares to chill thoroughly in the refrigerator before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled lemon juice.
- Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the lemon filling, mix just until combined to prevent a dense texture.
- Lining the Pan: Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the squares out and cut them.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter lemon filling, adjust the amount of sugar to taste. You can also add a bit of vanilla extract for added depth.
- Dusting with Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to keep it from absorbing moisture and losing its appearance.
To store Creamy Lemon Squares, follow these guidelines to maintain their freshness:
- Refrigerate: Keep the lemon squares in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming too soft and to preserve their flavor. Place them in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap.
- Layering: If stacking multiple squares, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Freeze (Optional): For longer storage, you can freeze the lemon squares. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serve Chilled: Lemon squares are best enjoyed chilled. Allow them to come to room temperature for a few minutes if they have been frozen or if you prefer them less cold.
The nutritional information for Creamy Lemon Squares can vary based on the specific recipe and portion size. Here is a general estimate for a standard recipe, assuming a typical serving size of one square (about 2×2 inches):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-9 grams
- Cholesterol: 50-70 mg
- Sodium: 60-100 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 20-25 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
For more precise information, it’s best to calculate based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.