Easy Lemon Squares

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as bright and cheerful as a sunny day, you’ve found it with these Easy Lemon Squares! This recipe is a family favorite, cherished for its delightful balance of tangy lemon and buttery goodness. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight treat or a sweet addition to your next family gathering, these squares are sure to bring smiles all around.

What truly makes Easy Lemon Squares special is how simple they are to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels fancy while being incredibly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: In just about an hour, you’ll have these delicious squares ready to enjoy.
• Family-friendly: The bright lemon flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a hit at gatherings.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these lemon squares in advance—just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
• Fresh and zesty: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest brings an uplifting brightness to your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these Easy Lemon Squares. Don’t worry; you likely have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Shortbread Base

• ½ cup butter (softened)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1 pinch salt

For the Lemon Filling

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 pinch salt
• zest of ½-1 lemon (½ – 1 tablespoon)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with some fun variations.

• Add some berries: Toss in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Try different citrus: Swap out lemon juice for lime or orange juice for a unique flavor profile.
• Incorporate herbs: Add finely chopped mint or basil into the filling for an unexpected herbal note.
• Make it colorful: Drizzle with colorful icing or sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive touch.

How to Make Easy Lemon Squares

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and get your 8×8 inch square cake pan ready. Lightly grease and flour it or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your delicious lemon squares come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan. A good base provides structure for those tangy layers on top!

Step 3: Bake the Base

Place the shortbread base in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. This step allows the flavors to meld together while creating a nice crust.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While your base is baking, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, baking powder, lemon juice, salt, and lemon zest in another bowl until smooth. This refreshing mixture will be poured over your baked shortbread once it’s ready.

Step 5: Combine & Bake Again

Once your shortbread base has cooled slightly, pour the lemon filling evenly over it. Return it to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It’s crucial not to overbake—this helps keep those delicious squares soft and chewy!

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let your Easy Lemon Squares cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for that extra touch! Serve chilled or at room temperature; either way, they’re bound to be enjoyed by all!

And there you have it—your very own batch of delightful Easy Lemon Squares! Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or savoring them all by yourself on a sunny afternoon!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Lemon Squares

Making the perfect Easy Lemon Squares is a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your squares come out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers a much brighter and more vibrant flavor than bottled juice, making your squares taste fresher and more delicious.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your lemon squares as they bake; overbaking can lead to a dry texture. They should be set but still slightly jiggle in the center when you take them out of the oven.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing your lemon squares to cool completely before cutting ensures clean, neat slices. This also helps the filling firm up nicely.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving: A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds a lovely presentation but also enhances the sweetness against the tartness of the lemon filling.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Squares

Presenting your Easy Lemon Squares beautifully can turn a simple dessert into a showstopper! Here are some fun ways to serve them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that enhances the citrus flavor.
• Lemon zest: A little extra lemon zest sprinkled on top brightens up both the look and taste, making it truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative provides a luscious, creamy contrast to the tangy lemon squares, enhancing their flavor profile.
• Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries and melons complements the tartness of the lemon bars while adding freshness.
• Iced tea or lemonade: Pairing your dessert with iced tea or homemade lemonade creates a refreshing experience that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Vanilla ice cream: For those who want a decadent treat, serving these lemon squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast between warm and cold, creamy and tangy.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Easy Lemon Squares in style! Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these tips will help you present this delicious dessert perfectly!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Lemon Squares are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat you can enjoy throughout the week. They store well and maintain their deliciousness, allowing you to savor a tangy bite whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lemon squares to cool completely before storing.
• Cut them into squares and place in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the lemon squares individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen lemon squares, transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
• For a warm treat, microwave each square for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Easy Lemon Squares that might help you along your baking journey!

Can I use bottled lemon juice for Easy Lemon Squares?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind it may not have the same vibrant taste.

How do I know when my Easy Lemon Squares are done baking?

The lemon filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when baked. They will firm up as they cool, ensuring a perfect texture!

Can I substitute the flour in Easy Lemon Squares?

Yes! You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute if you’re looking to make these squares gluten-free. Just ensure any other ingredients you use are also suitable.

What can I do with leftover lemon zest?

Leftover lemon zest can be added to marinades, salad dressings, or even used in other baking recipes like muffins or cakes for an extra burst of flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Easy Lemon Squares brightens your day as much as it does mine! The combination of buttery shortbread and zesty lemon filling is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying these treats on your own or sharing them with loved ones, I know you’ll find joy in every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!