Hey there, food enthusiasts! Welcome back to my kitchen. Today, I’m thrilled to share a delightful recipe that’s perfect for brightening up your day – Easy Fresh Lemon Squares. These tangy treats bring a burst of sunshine to your taste buds, and they’re a hit with both young and old. I remember the first time I made these lemon squares for a family picnic – they disappeared faster than I could snap my fingers!
How to Prepare Easy Fresh Lemon Squares
If you’re a fan of zesty and sweet desserts, you’re in for a treat with these Easy Fresh Lemon Squares. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create these mouthwatering delights:
Ingredients for Easy Fresh Lemon Squares
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter, softened
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ cups white sugar for filling
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour for filling
- 4 eggs
- 2 lemons, juiced
Directions for Easy Fresh Lemon Squares
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- To make the crust: In a medium bowl, blend 2 cups flour, softened butter, and ½ cup sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven until firm and golden, about 15 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 ½ cups sugar and ¼ cup flour. Whisk in the eggs and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 20 minutes.
- Set the pan aside to cool completely; the bars will firm up as they cool.
- Once cooled, cut the lemon bars into uniform squares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Lemon Squares Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, since the filling is egg-rich, it’s recommended to store these lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help them stay fresh and delicious for up to seven days.
Can You Freeze Lemon Squares?
Absolutely! If you want to enjoy your lemon squares beyond one week, freezing is a great option. Wrap them in a layer of storage wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. You can freeze the lemon bars for up to four months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
What Makes These Lemon Squares Special?
These lemon squares stand out for their perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. The velvety lemon filling complements the buttery cookie crust, creating a delightful harmony of tastes and textures in each bite.
Can I Use Store-Bought Lemon Juice?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought lemon juice as a convenient alternative. However, keep in mind that fresh lemon juice tends to provide a more vibrant and authentic taste.
What Occasions Are Perfect for Serving Lemon Squares?
Lemon squares are versatile treats that are perfect for various occasions. They make a delightful addition to brunches, tea parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Their bright and cheerful flavor is especially well-suited for spring and summer events.
Can I Add a Twist to the Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling creative, you can experiment with different variations. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated lemon zest to the filling for an extra burst of citrus aroma. You could also incorporate a handful of fresh berries into the filling to create a berry-lemon fusion.
And there you have it – a fantastic recipe for Easy Fresh Lemon Squares that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging in a moment of self-care, these lemon squares are a delightful way to treat yourself. Happy baking!
Easy Fresh Lemon Squares
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter softened
- ½ cup white sugar
Filling:
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 2 lemons juiced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- To make the crust: Blend 2 cups flour, softened butter, and 1/2 cup sugar in a medium bowl until well combined; press into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13-inch pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until firm and golden, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, make the filling: Whisk remaining 1 1/2 cups sugar and 1/4 cup flour in a medium bowl. Whisk in eggs, then lemon juice until smooth; pour filling over the baked crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Set the pan aside to cool completely; the bars will firm up as they cool. When cooled, cut into uniform squares.
