Creamy Lemon Squares
Is there anything more delightful than a slice of creamy lemon squares on a sunny afternoon? These little treats are like bites of sunshine, providing an explosion of zesty lemon flavor enrobed in a creamy, luscious filling. Growing up, my grandma would whip up a batch whenever we had guests, and I’ll never forget the excited faces as the bright yellow squares were set on the table! They are incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them a perfect go-to dessert for any family gathering or casual weeknight treat. If you’ve ever enjoyed a classic lemon meringue pie, think of these squares as its approachable, cuter cousin that’s just as tantalizing and just a bit easier to share without a fork!
For anyone who loves a good balance of sweet and tart, these lemon squares will quickly become a staple in your home. They are reminiscent of the lemon bars from your favorite bakery, but with the added advantage of being homemade! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen; this recipe is so simple, it might just become your new favorite!
What Are Creamy Lemon Squares?
Have you ever wondered why something as delicious as creamy lemon squares has such a simple name? One could imagine a grand history with a regal title, but nope, they’re just squares! It’s as if the basic yet delightful shape perfectly captures the essence of this dessert: uncomplicated yet satisfying. I love to joke that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and when he tastes these creamy lemon squares, he’ll definitely be saying, “more, please!” So if you’re ready to bring a little fun to your baking adventures, grab those lemons, and let’s get started on making this vibrant treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These creamy lemon squares are one of those recipes that bring joy not only in taste but also in simplicity. The highlight of this dish is undoubtedly the tangy lemon flavor, which is perfectly balanced with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Making these squares at home can save you money compared to store-bought desserts—and trust me, nothing beats the fresh, vibrant taste of homemade!
The real magic happens when you combine just a handful of ingredients: sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and a buttery crust that holds everything together. Unlike more complex desserts like lemon meringue pie, these squares streamline the process without sacrificing flavor. They’re also incredibly versatile—you can dress them up with powdered sugar or your favorite whipped topping. So why not give them a try and see how easy dessert can be?
How to Make Creamy Lemon Squares
Quick Overview
This dessert is incredibly easy to make, and best of all, it strikes that perfect balance between creamy and tangy. With just 15 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes to bake, you’ll have a refreshing treat ready to cool in no time.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Squares
To whip up these delectable creamy lemon squares, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup of powdered sugar (and some extra for dusting)
- ½ cup of unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cans (14 oz. each) of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon (for that extra zing!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Stir until you have a smooth dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
- Mix the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, eggs, and lemon zest until thoroughly combined.
- Assemble: Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the filling over the crust.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the squares to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving!
What to Serve Creamy Lemon Squares With
These delightful lemon squares can be paired with a variety of sides to enhance your dessert experience. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the squares will elevate their rich, tangy flavor. For drinks, consider serving them with a chilled glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade to keep the refreshing theme going!
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Lemon Squares
- Substitutions: If you’re in a pinch or prefer a different flavor, you can use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist!
- Timing: Make sure to let the squares cool completely before refrigerating, as this will help them set better.
- Slicing: Use a hot knife to slice through the squares for clean edges—just dip the knife in hot water, wipe it off, and cut!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These creamy lemon squares can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, making them perfect for meal prep! Ensure they are kept in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to three months. To enjoy the squares after freezing, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Now that you’re armed with this delectable recipe for creamy lemon squares, it’s time to gather the ingredients and wow your friends and family with a delightful treat! Whether you’re making them for a party or simply for yourself, these squares are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy baking!
Creamy Lemon Squares
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Stir until you have a smooth dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, eggs, and lemon zest until thoroughly combined.
- Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the filling over the crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
- Allow the squares to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving!
