Creamy Lemon Squares are a refreshing, tangy dessert that combines the brightness of fresh lemon with a creamy, smooth filling, all nestled on top of a buttery graham cracker crust.
The perfect balance of sweet and tart, these squares are an easy-to-make treat that’s ideal for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering, a family dinner, or simply craving something light and citrusy, these lemon squares are sure to satisfy.
With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and zesty flavor, they’re the perfect combination of simplicity and elegance in one delightful dessert!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
2 large egg yolks
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
1 tsp lemon zest
For Garnish (Optional):
Powdered sugar
Whipped cream
Lemon slices or zest
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
Add melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly.
Bake the Filling: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool and Chill: Let the lemon squares cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and firm.
Slice and Serve:
Once chilled, cut the lemon squares into small bars or squares.
Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with whipped cream and lemon slices for a decorative touch, if desired.
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 Lemon Squares
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh-squeezed lemon juice 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!