Creamy Lemon Squares

These Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful treat that brings sunshine to any occasion. With their bright, zesty flavor and creamy texture, they’re perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a sweet end to your meal. The combination of sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice creates a refreshing burst of flavor that is hard to resist. Enjoy these squares chilled or at room temperature for a delicious dessert experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Refreshing Flavor: The bright lemon taste provides a refreshing contrast to rich meals, leaving you feeling satisfied.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as mini squares for parties or larger pieces for family gatherings; they are always a hit!
• No Special Ingredients Needed: With simple ingredients you probably already have at home, these lemon squares are easy to whip up.
• Chill Factor: Refrigerating the squares enhances their texture and flavor, making them even more enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Efficiently crumbles the grachicken chicken ham crackers for the base, saving time and effort.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without splatter.
• 8-inch square baking pan: The perfect size to create thick, satisfying squares that bake evenly.

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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 grachicken chicken ham 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

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Butter an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging on two sides for easy removal later.

Step 3: Make the Crust

1. Break up the grachicken chicken ham crackers and add them into a food processor.
2. Pulse until they are finely crumbled.
3. Add sugar and melted butter to the crumbs in the processor.
4. Pulse again until well combined.
5. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and an inch up the sides.

Step 4: Bake the Crust

1. Place in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
2. Let it cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks.
2. Whisk until smooth; you can use an electric mixer or hand whisk.
3. Add fresh lemon juice and whisk until well combined.

Step 6: Bake with Filling

1. Pour the creamy filling over the cooled crust once it’s ready.
2. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until set and lightly browned on top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Let it cool completely on a cooling rack in the pan.
2. Optionally, refrigerate to firm up further before cutting into squares using the parchment paper edges for easy removal.
3. Cut into either 16 mini squares or 9 larger squares depending on your preference.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Lemon Squares, bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Squares

Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their bright, zesty flavor pairs well with various accompaniments, making them versatile for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a simple dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your creamy lemon squares alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The natural sweetness and tartness of the berries complement the lemon flavor beautifully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each square for extra creaminess. It enhances the dessert’s texture and adds a rich, velvety touch.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Create a simple lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice. Drizzle it over the cooled squares for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Paired with Iced Tea

• These lemon squares pair wonderfully with refreshing iced tea. Choose a classic black tea or a fruity herbal blend to balance the dessert’s sweetness.

Served with Vanilla Ice Cream

• For a decadent treat, serve creamy lemon squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm flavors of the squares.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Squares

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Squares turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice yields a brighter flavor compared to bottled juice, enhancing the overall taste of your squares.

• Cool completely: Allow your lemon squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them set up properly and makes slicing easier.

• Chill before serving: Refrigerating the squares after they cool to room temperature will help firm them up even more, making them easier to cut and serve.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter treat, feel free to add more sugar to the filling mixture according to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Squares

Creamy Lemon Squares can be accompanied by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile and create a balanced dessert spread.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness alongside the creamy texture of the lemon squares.
2. Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecake offers a rich contrast to the lightness of creamy lemon squares.
3. Chocolate Fondue: A fun interactive element where guests can dip fruit or cake pieces into warm chocolate complements the tartness of lemons.
4. Mini Pavlovas: Light meringue nests filled with whipped cream and fruit provide an airy balance to satisfy sweet cravings.
5. Nutty Granola: A crunchy granola served on the side adds texture and pairs well with creamy desserts.
6. Coffee or Espresso: Serving strong coffee or espresso creates a delightful contrast with the sweetness of creamy lemon squares.
7. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats offer an interesting flavor twist that complements citrus desserts well.
8. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce can add richness and depth that works surprisingly well with lemon flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Lemon Squares, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the crust to cool completely is essential for achieving the right texture. If you skip this step, the filling may become runny or soggy.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are vital for balancing flavors. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise quantities of lemon juice and sugar.

• Overmixing the Filling: Mixing too much can introduce air, causing your squares to rise and then collapse. Mix just until combined for a smooth, creamy filling.

• Using Fresh Lemon Juice Without Tasting: Not tasting your lemon juice can lead to overly tart or bland squares. Always taste before adding to assess sweetness and acidity balance.

• Cutting Before Chilling: Cutting the squares before they are fully chilled can lead to messy pieces. Give them adequate time in the refrigerator for easier slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Creamy Lemon Squares in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• For best flavor, consume within 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Squares

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Squares

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain their creamy texture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds at a time until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a square in a small pan over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed, which keeps it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Creamy Lemon Squares that may help you in your baking journey.

What makes Creamy Lemon Squares different from traditional lemon bars?

Creamy Lemon Squares have a richer, smoother filling due to sweetened condensed milk, giving them a unique creamy texture compared to traditional lemon bars.

Can I make Creamy Lemon Squares vegan?

You can substitute egg yolks with plant-based alternatives like flax eggs or commercial egg replacers and use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk for a vegan version.

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

The squares are set when the filling no longer jiggles in the center and has a slight golden hue on top.

Are there any variations I can try with Creamy Lemon Squares?

Yes! You can add zest from lemons for extra flavor or mix in fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Squares are not only delicious but also versatile. Their bright citrus flavor makes them perfect for any occasion, from picnics to parties. Feel free to customize them by adding different fruits or adjusting sweetness levels. Enjoy making these delightful treats!