These Creamy Lemon Squares are the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy, with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. They’re easy to make and ideal for any occasion, from a casual tea break to a sophisticated dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Lemon Filling:
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
2 tablespoons lemon zest
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping (Optional):
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Whipped cream or lemon zest curls
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until combined.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Lemon Squares:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center.
Allow the squares to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Serve:
Once chilled, cut into squares or bars. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with whipped cream or lemon zest, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy lemon squares chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Pair with a cup of tea, coffee, or lemonade for a refreshing treat.
Variations for Creamy Lemon Squares
Crust Alternatives:
Use crushed shortbread cookies, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger to the crust for a spiced twist.
Citrus Blend:
Substitute part of the lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a citrus medley.
Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, milder lemon flavor.
Berry Addition:
Swirl in a few teaspoons of raspberry or blueberry preserves before baking for a fruity touch.
Top with fresh berries after chilling for added color and flavor.
Chocolate Touch:
Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top of the bars for a decadent finish.
Add mini chocolate chips to the crust before pressing it into the pan.
Creamy Layer:
Spread a thin layer of sweetened whipped cream or cream cheese frosting over the chilled lemon squares for extra creaminess.
Tips for the Best Squares
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh-squeezed for the brightest, most authentic flavor. Bottled juice won’t give the same results.
Perfect Zest: When zesting lemons, avoid the white pith beneath the peel, as it can make the filling bitter.
Crust Firmness: Pack the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the pan using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup for a stable base.
Avoid Overbaking: Bake just until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center; overbaking can cause cracks or a rubbery texture.
Clean Slices: For neat slices, chill the bars thoroughly and wipe the knife clean between each cut.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw in the fridge before serving.
These tips and variations ensure your Creamy Lemon Squares are versatile, flavorful, and a hit every time you make them!
How to Store Creamy Lemon Squares
Short-Term Storage
Refrigerator: Place the lemon squares in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled ensures the filling stays firm and the crust retains its texture.
Long-Term Storage
Freezing:
To freeze, place the fully chilled and sliced lemon squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until firm (about 1 hour).
Once frozen, transfer the squares to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, place the squares in the refrigerator overnight. Serve chilled.
Serving After Storage
For best results, serve the lemon squares chilled directly from the refrigerator.
If frozen, allow them to reach refrigerator temperature before serving for the creamiest texture.
Tips for Storing
Avoid leaving the squares at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warm climates, as the filling may soften.
Always use airtight storage to prevent the squares from absorbing odors or moisture from the fridge or freezer.
Proper storage ensures your Creamy Lemon Squares remain fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever you need them!