Lemon Squares Recipe: A Zesty Delight
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of sunshine? Look no further than this irresistible lemon squares recipe. This classic dessert is incredibly easy to make, yet delivers a sophisticated and refreshing flavor that's perfect for any occasion – from casual weeknight treats to elegant gatherings. Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to create these delightful squares!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe breaks down into two main components: the buttery shortbread crust and the tangy lemon filling. Here's what you'll need for both:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's embark on creating these delectable lemon squares, step-by-step:
Making the Crust:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Tip: Avoid overmixing; you want some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
- Press into Pan: Press the crumbly mixture evenly into an 8x8 inch baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer.
- Pre-bake the Crust: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Important Note: This pre-baking step helps prevent a soggy bottom. Let cool completely.
Making the Lemon Filling:
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the lemon juice, eggs, and lemon zest to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Pro Tip: Using fresh lemons yields the best flavor.
- Pour over Crust: Carefully pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake the Filling: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden brown around the edges. The center might still appear slightly jiggly, which is perfectly fine.
- Cool Completely: Let the lemon squares cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows the filling to fully set. This is crucial for achieving clean cuts and preventing a messy dessert.
Cutting and Serving:
Once completely cooled, cut the lemon squares into even squares. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve and enjoy your homemade lemon squares!
Tips for Lemon Square Success:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make all the difference in flavor.
- Don't Overmix the Crust: Overmixing will result in a tough crust.
- Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting to prevent a messy disaster.
- Storage: Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This lemon squares recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The tangy lemon filling perfectly complements the buttery shortbread crust, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy instructions, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your baking skills! Enjoy!
