Lemon Squares Recipe

Creamy Lemon Squares are a quintessential dessert that offers the perfect balance of sweet and tart. With a smooth, citrusy lemon filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust, these squares are the ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family gathering, or simply craving something refreshing, these lemon squares are sure to impress. Their light, zesty flavor, combined with a buttery crust, makes them the ultimate dessert for all seasons. This recipe has been passed down for generations and continues to bring joy to kitchens everywhere.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Serving Size: 12 squares

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

For the Crust:

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened and cooled

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the sugar. Add the softened butter to the mixture and stir until the crumbs are fully coated, and the mixture becomes moist.
2. Form the Crust: Transfer the graham cracker mixture into a 9×9-inch square baking pan. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to compact the mixture so that it holds together while baking.
3. Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare the Lemon Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add the fresh lemon juice and continue whisking until the mixture is well combined. This will form the creamy, tangy filling for your lemon squares.
5. Assemble the Squares: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the filling, ensuring that it covers the crust completely.
6. Bake the Lemon Squares: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the filling has set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. Be careful not to overcook it, as the filling should remain soft and creamy.
7. Cool and Set: Remove the pan from the oven and let the lemon squares cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Once they have cooled, place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set. This allows the squares to firm up and makes them easier to slice.

Presentation:

Once your lemon squares are completely chilled, carefully slice them into squares. You can garnish each square with a dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate touch or add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a burst of fruity flavor, serve the squares with fresh berries such as strawberries or blueberries, which complement the tangy lemon filling perfectly.

Creamy Lemon Squares are a timeless dessert that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries them. Their perfect combination of sweetness and tartness makes them suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving them as a refreshing end to a meal or as a delightful snack, these squares will always be a hit. The rich, smooth lemon filling, paired with the buttery graham cracker crust, is a match made in dessert heaven. With a simple yet flavorful preparation, this dessert is one that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Squares with a cup of tea or a fresh summer beverage for the ultimate treat.