Description

Delicious Creamy Lemon Squares offer the perfect balance of tangy brightness and rich, velvety smoothness. Featuring a buttery, crisp crust topped with a silky lemon custard filling, these bars are an irresistible dessert ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
⅔ cup sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Lemon Filling

4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 ½ cups sugar
2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)

Optional Topping

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Mix until the dough comes together, then firmly press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined baking pan to create a smooth, even layer.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18–20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. This creates a crisp, buttery base perfect for the lemon filling.
Mix the Lemon Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until completely smooth and well combined, ensuring a velvety, citrus-packed filling.
Pour and Bake the Filling: Carefully pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center and not fully firm, to retain the creamy texture.
Cool and Dust: Allow the lemon squares to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to enhance texture and flavor. Before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate, sweet finish.

Notes

Use fresh lemons for the best vibrant flavor; bottled lemon juice lacks brightness and aroma.
Make sure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
Do not overbake; the filling should remain slightly wobbly in the center to avoid dryness.
Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing to help them maintain their shape.
Use a sharp, warm knife wiped between cuts for clean, neat slices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 2x2 inch)
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 65 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: lemon squares, creamy lemon dessert, lemon bars, tangy lemon bars, citrus dessert, creamy lemon custard, buttery crust