Creamy Lemon Squares

These Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion. With their sweet lemon flavor and creamy texture, they are perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or simply as a comforting dessert at home. The combination of graham cracker crust and zesty lemon filling makes them a standout choice for those who crave both sweetness and tanginess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
• Refreshing Flavor: The bright taste of lemon gives these squares a refreshing twist, ideal for warm days.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them at parties, potlucks, or as an everyday treat; they fit any occasion.
• No Baking Skills Needed: Even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, you can whip up these creamy squares with ease.
• Perfectly Creamy Texture: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks creates a luscious filling that melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious Creamy Lemon Squares, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 8-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes it easy to crumble graham crackers quickly and efficiently.
• 8-inch square baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and helps create the perfect thickness for your lemon squares.
• Parchment paper: Lining your pan with this makes it easy to lift out the cooled squares without sticking.

Ingredients

These sunny lemon squares have a sweet lemon taste and amazing lemon flavor. For me, it’s like lemonade squares.

For the Crust

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 24 squares graham crackers
• ¼ cup of sugar

For the Filling

• 2 egg yolks
• 1 can (12oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup of lemon juice

How to Make Creamy Lemon Squares

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Butter and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging on two sides; this will help you remove the creamy lemon squares later.

Step 3: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Break up the graham crackers and add them to a food processor.
2. Pulse until crumbled.
3. Add sugar and melted butter, then pulse again until combined.

Step 4: Press the Crust Mixture into the Pan

Add this crumble mixture to the prepared pan. Press it firmly into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of the pan to create a crust.

Step 5: Bake the Crust

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Let the crust cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Filling

While the crust is cooling:
1. In a mixing bowl, add sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks.
2. Whisk until smooth using an electric mixer or whisker.
3. Add fresh lemon juice and whisk until well combined.

Step 7: Bake Again with Filling

When the graham cracker crust has cooled, pour this creamy lemon filling into it. Bake in the preheated oven for another 15-20 minutes or until set and lightly browned on top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the creamy squares cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. You can refrigerate them after they reach room temperature; chilling helps firm them up. Use the hanging parchment paper to lift out from the pan onto a cutting board. Cut into 16 mini squares or 9 larger ones as desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Lemon Squares

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Squares

Creamy lemon squares are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Their zesty flavor pairs well with various accompaniments, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries to add a sweet and juicy contrast.
• Raspberries: The tartness of raspberries complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
• Blueberries: These provide a mild sweetness that balances the tanginess of the lemon squares.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and lightens the dessert.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try vanilla or citrus-infused whipped cream for an extra twist.

Served with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream enhances the creamy texture.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing option, serve with lemon sorbet for an extra zing.

Garnished with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Add a few mint leaves on top for a pop of color and refreshing flavor.

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How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Squares

To achieve the best creamy lemon squares, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor compared to bottled juice.
• Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerate the squares after baking for firmer and easier cutting.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to a tough filling.
• Ensure Crust is Firm: Press the crust firmly into the pan to create a sturdy base.
• Cool Completely: Let them cool completely in the pan to set properly before slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Squares

Creamy lemon squares can be complemented by several delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Consider serving them alongside:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda; their creaminess pairs well with the tangy squares.
3. Nuts and Dried Fruits: A small bowl of mixed nuts and dried fruits provides crunch and sweetness.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a healthy contrast.
5. Chilled Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages complement the citrus flavors perfectly.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The richness of chocolate pairs wonderfully with citrus desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy lemon squares, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using warm ingredients: Always ensure that your butter is melted and cooled before mixing. Warm ingredients can affect the texture of your filling.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the crust to cool completely before adding the filling is crucial. Skipping this step can cause the filling to become runny.
• Not measuring lemon juice properly: Accurate measurement of lemon juice is vital for achieving the perfect balance of tartness and creaminess. Use a measuring cup for precision.
• Overbaking the squares: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to a tough texture instead of a creamy finish.
• Neglecting to chill before cutting: Chilling your squares after they cool at room temperature helps them set properly. This makes it easier to cut into neat squares.
• Using low-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh lemons and quality sweetened condensed milk. Your squares will taste much better.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Squares

• Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Ensure they are fully cooled before wrapping and freezing.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Squares

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm squares on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares in 15-second intervals until warmed through, but be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making creamy lemon squares.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for Creamy Lemon Squares?

While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just ensure it’s 100% juice without additives.

How do I know when my Creamy Lemon Squares are done?

The filling should be set but slightly jiggly when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize my Creamy Lemon Squares?

Absolutely! You can add zest from lemons for extra flavor or even incorporate different citrus fruits like lime or orange for a unique twist.

What should I serve with Creamy Lemon Squares?

These lemon squares pair well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries also make a lovely garnish!

Final Thoughts

Creamy lemon squares are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors perfectly. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences, making them ideal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!