Creamy Lemon Squares

Treat your taste buds to a burst of sunshine with our delectable Creamy Lemon Squares recipe. These irresistible squares boast a creamy, tangy lemon filling nestled atop a buttery graham cracker crust, creating the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. Whether you’re craving a refreshing dessert for a summer gathering or simply looking to brighten up your day, these lemon squares are sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of summertime bliss with every bite!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

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

For the Filling:

• 2 egg yolks
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ can lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until finely ground. Add the sugar and melted butter, and pulse until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Gradually add the lemon juice, stirring until well incorporated and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Pour the Filling: Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake Again: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
6. Cool and Chill: Remove the lemon squares from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill the squares for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
7. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, slice the lemon squares into squares or bars. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations

• Zesty Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of freshly grated lemon zest to the filling mixture.
• Tangy Lime Variation: Substitute lime juice for the lemon juice to create tangy Lime Squares instead of Lemon Squares.
• Coconut Crust: For a tropical twist, add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the graham cracker crust mixture before pressing it into the baking dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, consider the following modifications:

• Almond Flour Crust: Replace the graham crackers with almond flour and sweeten the crust with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
• Sugar-Free Filling: Use a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk substitute and freshly squeezed lemon juice to keep the filling low in carbs and keto-friendly.
• Coconut Cream Option: Swap out the sweetened condensed milk for coconut cream and sweeten with a keto-friendly sweetener for a dairy-free and lower-carb alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice? A: While fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, you can use store-bought lemon juice as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand without any added preservatives or additives.

Q: How should I store leftover lemon squares? A: Store any leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.

Q: Can I freeze lemon squares? A: Yes, you can freeze lemon squares for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

In conclusion, Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery graham cracker crust and luscious lemon filling, these squares are a true taste sensation that’s sure to please. Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, these lemon squares are guaranteed to brighten your day. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and let the zesty flavors of lemon transport you to citrusy paradise with every blissful bite!