CREAMY LEMON SQUARES

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
• Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (it should have a crumbly texture).
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even layer.
• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Lemon Filling:

• While the crust is cooling, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, and baking powder in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined.
• Add in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the mixture is fully incorporated.
• Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

3. Bake the Lemon Squares:

• Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set and lightly golden around the edges. The center should still have a slight wobble when gently shaken.
• Let the squares cool in the pan at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to fully set and develop its creamy texture.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once chilled, dust the top of the lemon squares with powdered sugar for a light, sweet finish.
• Slice into squares or bars, and serve cold for a refreshing treat. For a more elegant presentation, you can garnish with additional lemon zest or a small sprig of mint.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Lemon Squares

1. Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. While bottled lemon juice is convenient, it often lacks the bright, aromatic flavor that fresh lemons deliver.
2. Chill Before Serving: While it’s tempting to dive right into the lemon squares after baking, letting them chill for at least 2 hours helps the filling firm up and makes it easier to slice into neat squares.
3. Adjust Sweetness and Tartness: If you prefer a more tart lemon square, you can reduce the sugar in the filling slightly. Conversely, if you want a sweeter version, you can increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
4. Cutting Clean Squares: To get clean, professional-looking slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to keep the edges neat.

Why These Creamy Lemon Squares Are So Irresistible

The reason creamy lemon squares are a favorite among so many is their perfect balance of flavors. The creamy filling is rich without being overly heavy, while the crisp, buttery crust provides a satisfying contrast. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest delivers a vibrant citrus punch that brightens up the entire dessert, making it feel light and refreshing, even after a rich meal.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or satisfy your own sweet tooth, creamy lemon squares are the ideal choice. Their elegant look, bright flavor, and easy preparation make them a go-to dessert for any occasion.

Conclusion

In the world of desserts, few treats are as universally adored as creamy lemon squares. They offer a refreshing, sweet-tart experience that’s impossible to resist. Whether you like them as a light dessert after a meal or a perfect afternoon snack with a cup of tea, these lemon squares will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With their smooth, creamy filling and buttery crust, every bite is a delightful balance of flavors, sure to brighten your day. So, next time you’re craving something sweet, why not treat yourself to a batch of creamy lemon squares? You’ll be glad you did!