Discover the Best Creamy Lemon Squares Recipe for Everyone

Prepare to embark on a delightful flavor journey with Creamy Lemon Squares! These irresistible squares are the perfect fusion of a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy, creamy lemon filling. Whether you’re craving a refreshing summer dessert or a year-round treat, Creamy Lemon Squares are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you longing for more. Get ready to bake up a batch of these heavenly squares and experience the joy of every citrusy, velvety bite.

Table of Contents

The Ingredients That Make Creamy Lemon Squares Shine

The secret to the perfect Creamy Lemon Squares lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s break down the crust and filling components to understand how they come together to create this delectable dessert.

For the Crust:

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

For the Lemon Filling:

• 2 egg yolks
• 1 can (12oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup of lemon juice

The graham cracker crust provides a buttery, crisp foundation that perfectly complements the creamy lemon filling. The sugar in the crust adds a subtle sweetness, while the melted butter helps bind the crumbs together for a cohesive base. For the filling, the egg yolks create a rich, custardy texture, the sweetened condensed milk lends a velvety creaminess, and the fresh lemon juice provides the essential tangy flavor that makes these squares so irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Lemon Squares

Ready to bring these Creamy Lemon Squares to life? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delightful citrus treat in no time!

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Crust

Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. In a bowl, mix the crumbs with the melted butter and sugar until the mixture is well combined. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden.

Make the Lemon Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Bake the Squares

Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Cool and Serve

Allow the Creamy Lemon Squares to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Enjoy this refreshing and indulgent dessert!

Tips for Perfecting Creamy Lemon Squares

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Squares turn out beautifully, consider these helpful tips:

• Achieve the Perfect Crust Texture: For a sturdy yet tender crust, be sure to finely crush the graham crackers and mix the crumbs thoroughly with the melted butter and sugar.
• Set the Filling Properly: Bake the squares until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures a creamy, velvety texture without overcooking the custard.
• Refrigerate for Best Results: Allowing the squares to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours helps the filling set completely and enhances the flavors.
• Serve with a Garnish: A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can take these Creamy Lemon Squares to the next level.

Variations and Adaptations to Elevate Your Lemon Squares

While the classic Creamy Lemon Squares are a delight, you can also explore various adaptations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

Flavor Variations:

• Coconut Lemon Squares: Fold in shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
• Raspberry Lemon Squares: Swirl in fresh or frozen raspberries to the lemon filling for a fruity complement.

Dietary Adaptations:

• Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute crushed almond or coconut flour for the crust.
• Vegan Lemon Squares: Replace the egg yolks with a vegan custard base, such as silken tofu or cashew cream, and use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk.

The possibilities for customizing Creamy Lemon Squares are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect flavor combination.

Nutritional Information for Creamy Lemon Squares

While Creamy Lemon Squares are an indulgent dessert, they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 250 calories
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 25g

While the lemon and egg yolks in this recipe provide some health benefits, it’s important to remember that Creamy Lemon Squares are a treat and should be enjoyed as part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Moderation is key when indulging in this delightful dessert.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Key Lime Pound Cake
• Silky Lemon Cream
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade
• Whipped Pink Lemonade

FAQs About Creamy Lemon Squares

Can I use fresh lemon juice or bottled lemon juice for this recipe?

For the best flavor, we recommend using fresh lemon juice. The bright, tangy notes of fresh lemon juice will enhance the overall taste of the squares. However, if fresh lemons are not available, you can use a high-quality bottled lemon juice as a substitute.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of the Creamy Lemon Squares crust. Instead of using graham crackers, you can substitute crushed gluten-free graham crackers or a blend of almond flour and coconut flour. This will ensure the squares are suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or intolerances.

How should I store the lemon squares to keep them fresh?

Once the Creamy Lemon Squares have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 5 days when properly stored. If you notice the crust starting to soften, you can refresh the squares by placing them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the crust.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party or event?

Absolutely! Creamy Lemon Squares are the perfect make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the entire recipe, bake the squares, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, making them an easy and delicious treat to serve at your next gathering.

Indulge in the Creamy, Citrusy Bliss of Lemon Squares

Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety lemon filling, these squares are a refreshing and indulgent treat that will have your taste buds singing with joy. Whether you enjoy them as a summertime delight or an anytime sweet, Creamy Lemon Squares are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible citrus squares today!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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