When life hands you lemons, make Creamy Lemon Squares! These delectable lemon bars are the epitome of sweet and tangy indulgence, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. The luscious, creamy lemon filling harmonizes perfectly with the buttery, crumbly crust, delivering a flavor explosion that’s truly irresistible. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create these mouthwatering Lemon Squares, share practical cooking tips and creative variations to suit your preferences, and even offer keto and low-carb adaptations for those with specific dietary needs. Let’s embark on a citrusy culinary adventure!
Ingredients
To prepare Creamy Lemon Squares, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Create the Crust:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of powdered sugar, and the softened unsalted butter, cut into small pieces. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
2. Press and Bake:
- Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
3. Prepare the Lemon Filling:
- While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of lemon zest, 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well blended.
4. Layer and Bake Anew:
- Pour the lemon filling over the hot, partially baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the top takes on a slight golden hue.
5. Cool and Dust:
- Let the lemon squares cool in the pan. Once they’ve cooled to room temperature, you can dust the top with powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Cooking Notes
- When zesting lemons, be cautious to only zest the fragrant, yellow part of the skin, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- Adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of powdered sugar used for dusting, depending on your preference.
Variations
- Enhance the lemony goodness by adding a few drops of lemon extract to the filling for an even more intense citrus flavor.
- Incorporate a layer of fresh berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, on top of the lemon filling before baking to introduce a fruity twist.
Keto Version
- For a keto-friendly take on Creamy Lemon Squares, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a keto baking mix. Replace granulated sugar with a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Opt for unsweetened almond or coconut milk to reduce carb content. This keto adaptation allows you to relish the zesty pleasure of Lemon Squares while adhering to your low-carb lifestyle.
Low-Carb Version
- Craft a low-carb variation by using almond flour or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour. Replace granulated sugar with a low-carb sweetener and select almond or coconut milk. This low-carb twist lets you enjoy the delightful citrusy essence of Lemon Squares without compromising your dietary choices.
Creamy Lemon Squares are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, leaving your taste buds longing for more. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore keto and low-carb alternatives, these zesty squares offer a burst of citrusy delight. Share them with friends and family, or indulge in a personal treat. Savor the delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite and brighten your day with Creamy Lemon Squares.
