Lemon squares are the perfect summer dessert, combining a buttery shortbread crust with a tangy, zesty lemon curd topping. These delightful treats are baked to golden perfection, then finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet, elegant touch.
Their refreshing citrus flavor makes them a hit on warm days, and their portable size is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. This recipe is simple to follow, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, yet delivers a dessert that looks and tastes sophisticated.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a light, tart treat, these lemon squares will steal the show.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step of making these crowd-pleasing lemon squares. From selecting the freshest lemons to achieving the perfect shortbread texture, I’ve got you covered.
Plus, I’ll share tips to make your lemon squares stand out, along with nutritional facts and kitchen tools you’ll need.
For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying delicious desserts, NuviaLab Sugar Control will help manage blood sugar levels and Collagen Select will keep your skin looking radiant, so you can feel as good as these lemon squares taste.
See also: Easy Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Recipe
How to Make Lemon Squares
Creating lemon squares is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. The recipe involves two main components: a buttery shortbread crust and a creamy lemon curd topping. You’ll start by preparing the crust, which is pressed into a baking pan and partially baked.
Then, you’ll whip up a simple lemon curd mixture using fresh lemons, eggs, and sugar, pour it over the crust, and bake until set. A final dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients
The ingredients for lemon squares are simple, but choosing high-quality products makes all the difference. Below, I’ve broken down each ingredient, explaining its role in the recipe and why it matters. All linked products are available on Amazon for your convenience.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of the shortbread crust, providing structure and a tender, crumbly texture. Opt for a high-quality all-purpose flour to ensure the crust holds together without being too dense. About 1 ½ cups will do the trick for a standard 8×8-inch pan.
- Unsalted Butter: The star of the shortbread crust, unsalted butter adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality. Use ½ cup (1 stick), softened but not melted, to achieve the perfect consistency. Choosing unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the crust.
- Granulated Sugar: For the crust, ¼ cup of granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the lemon flavor. In the lemon curd, 1 cup of granulated sugar balances the tartness of the lemons.
- Salt: A pinch of salt in the crust enhances the flavors and complements the buttery richness. Use fine sea salt or table salt for even distribution.
- Lemons: Fresh lemons are the heart of this recipe, providing the bright, tangy flavor in the curd. You’ll need about 3–4 medium lemons for ½ cup of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of zest. Choose firm, heavy lemons with smooth, bright yellow skin for the best flavor.
- Eggs: Three large eggs give the lemon curd its creamy, custardy texture. They also help the curd set properly during baking. Fresh, high-quality eggs make a noticeable difference in the final result.
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the cooled lemon squares adds sweetness and a beautiful finish. You’ll need about 2 tablespoons, sifted to avoid clumps.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): A teaspoon of vanilla extract in the crust adds a subtle warmth that complements the lemony topping. It’s optional but highly recommended for depth of flavor.
For those looking to enjoy desserts while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, consider adding NuviaLab Sugar Control to your routine. This supplement helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it easier to enjoy treats like lemon squares without worry.
See also: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
To make these lemon squares, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. Each piece of equipment is linked to Amazon for easy shopping.
- 8×8-Inch Baking Pan: A square baking pan is essential for shaping the lemon squares. Choose a metal or glass pan for even baking.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two mixing bowls—one for the crust and one for the lemon curd. Medium-sized bowls work best.
- Whisk: A whisk is perfect for blending the lemon curd ingredients smoothly.
- Zester: A zester or microplane grater is necessary for extracting lemon zest without the bitter pith.
- Juicer: A handheld or electric juicer makes it easy to extract fresh lemon juice.
- Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal of the lemon squares.
- Oven: A reliable oven is key for baking the crust and curd to perfection.
- Sifter: A sifter is useful for dusting powdered sugar evenly over the finished squares.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your lemon squares:
Step 1
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2
Make the Shortbread Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (if using). Cut in ½ cup of softened unsalted butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 3
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 15–20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the lemon curd.
Step 4
Prepare the Lemon Curd: In another mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of fresh lemon juice (from 3–4 lemons), and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 5
Bake the Lemon Squares: Pour the lemon curd over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the curd is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 6
Cool and Chill: Let the lemon squares cool to room temperature in the baking pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Step 7
Finish and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the lemon squares from the pan. Dust the top with 2 tablespoons of sifted powdered sugar using a sifter. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Recipe Tips
To ensure your lemon squares turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest from lemons provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it can taste artificial.
- Don’t Overbake: The lemon curd should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven. Overbaking can make the curd rubbery.
- Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerating the lemon squares for at least 2 hours makes them easier to cut into neat squares.
- Sift the Powdered Sugar: Using a sifter ensures an even, clump-free dusting of powdered sugar.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to a month.
For those watching their weight, try Moringa Actives, a supplement designed to support healthy weight loss and reduce hunger, making it easier to enjoy desserts in moderation.
See also: Blueberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (1 square, based on 16 squares):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g (Sugars: 18g)
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin C: 6% of Daily Value
These values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. To support overall health while enjoying treats like these, consider NuviaLab Immune, which boosts immunity and enhances well-being with natural ingredients like elderberry and zinc.
Why Lemon Squares Are Perfect for Summer
Lemon squares are a quintessential summer dessert because of their refreshing, tangy flavor that cuts through the heat. The bright citrus notes from fresh lemons make them a light yet satisfying treat, perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Their portability also makes them ideal for outdoor events like picnics or barbecues. Plus, the vibrant yellow color adds a cheerful touch to any dessert table.
If you’re aiming to maintain a healthy lifestyle this summer, supplements like Cappuccino MCT can give you an energy boost and support fat burning, while Fibre Select helps cleanse your body of toxins, enhancing overall wellness.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas to customize your lemon squares:
- Add Berries: Top each square with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Coconut Twist: Mix shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical vibe.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tart curd.
For radiant skin to match your vibrant summer desserts, try Collagen Select, which supports skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles, keeping you looking as fresh as your lemon squares.
See also: Easy Mango Float Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Squares
1. Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh Lemons?
Fresh lemons are best for this recipe because they give a bright, natural flavor that bottled juice can’t match. You’ll need about ½ cup of juice from 3–4 fresh lemons for the curd, plus 1 tablespoon of zest for extra zing.
Bottled juice can taste flat or artificial, which might dull the tangy taste of your lemon squares. To make juicing easier, use a juicer and a zester.
2. How Do I Store Lemon Squares to Keep Them Fresh?
Store your lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to 5 days. The cool temperature helps the lemon curd stay firm and prevents the unsalted butter in the crust from softening.
For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month, just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving, and dust with fresh powdered sugar using a sifter for a pretty finish.
3. Can I Make Lemon Squares Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free lemon squares by swapping all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a 1:1 baking blend on Amazon to keep the crust tender and crumbly.
The lemon curd topping is naturally gluten-free, as it uses eggs, granulated sugar, and lemons. Make sure to check all ingredients for gluten traces if you’re sensitive.
4. Why Is My Lemon Curd Not Setting Properly?
If your lemon curd is too runny, it might need more baking time or the right ingredient balance. Bake the lemon squares in an 8×8-inch baking pan at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until the curd is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Ensure you’re using 3 large eggs and ½ cup of fresh lemon juice from lemons, as too much liquid can prevent setting. Also, chill the squares in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours after cooling to help the curd firm up.
5. Can I Add Other Flavors to Lemon Squares?
Absolutely! You can enhance your lemon squares with simple additions. Try mixing shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist or topping with fresh berries like raspberries for a colorful contrast. F
or a subtle warmth, add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract to the curd. Use a mixing bowl and whisk to blend flavors evenly. These variations keep the recipe versatile for summer gatherings.
See also: Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Conclusion
This easy lemon squares recipe is a must-try for summer. With a buttery shortbread crust and a zesty lemon curd topping, these treats are simple to make yet elegant enough to impress.
Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, they’re sure to be a hit. Stock up on quality ingredients and tools using the Amazon links provided, and consider adding supplements like Keto Actives or Fat Burn Active to support your wellness goals while indulging in delicious desserts. Happy baking.
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