Lemon Dessert Squares boast a buttery melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust. These lemon bars have a tangy lemon filling for a delicious treat!
You will also like Millionaire's Shortbread, Chocolate Cookie Bars, Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars, Almon Nougat Bar, Lemon Cheesecake Cups, and White Chocolate Raspberry Blondies.
![Lemon Dessert Squares](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-2.jpg)
A zesty lemon bar featuring a crisp, buttery shortbread base and a luxuriously smooth, sweet-tart lemon filling. It's like a burst of summer sunshine in every bite! Made with a flaky shortbread crust and a vibrant, tangy lemon filling, these lemon squares are the epitome of dessert perfection.
If you're craving recipes for lemon bars or lemon squares, look no further, as this recipe promises to delight you with its refreshing citrus flavor and decadent texture.
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⭐Why You'll Love This Lemon Dessert Squares Recipe
Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, you can create a delightful dessert that's sure to impress.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.
- Bright, Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice creates a bright, tangy flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Perfect Balance of Sweetness: The sweetness of the shortbread crust and the tartness of the lemon topping create a perfect balance of flavors, making each bite delightful.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare these lemon dessert squares ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve, making them a convenient dessert option for busy days or entertaining.
- Crowd Pleaser: Whether you're serving these squares at a family brunch or a holiday potluck, they're sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
If you want more desserts you should check out No-Bake Lemon Souffle and Lemon Tiramisu.
🧾Ingredients
Here is a list of everything you need.
![Lemon Dessert Squares](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-1.jpg)
For the Shortbread Crust:
- Plain Flour: Provides the base structure for the crust. It contributes to the crumbly texture and helps bind the ingredients together. You can substitute plain flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. You can also use gluten-free flour blends if you need to avoid gluten.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the crust. It also contributes to the golden color and slightly caramelized flavor. White granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust by balancing the sweetness.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the crust. It also helps bind the dry ingredients together, resulting in a tender and buttery texture. You can substitute butter with an equal amount of margarine for a dairy-free option.
For the Lemon Topping:
- Lemon Zest: Provides intense lemon flavor and aroma to the topping. It adds brightness and freshness to the dessert.
- Sugar: Sweetens the lemon topping and balances the tartness of the lemon juice. It also helps create a smooth texture in the filling. You can use alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of white granulated sugar.
- Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the lemon topping, helping it set properly during baking. It also contributes to the structure and stability of the dessert. Cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used instead of flour to thicken the lemon topping. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
- Lemon Juice: Provides the tart and tangy flavor that is characteristic of lemon desserts. It adds acidity and freshness to the filling.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure and texture of the lemon topping. They also help create a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Icing Sugar: Used for dusting the top of the dessert squares, adding a sweet and decorative finish. If you don't have icing sugar for dusting, you can skip this step altogether.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
👩🏻🍳How to Make Lemon Dessert Squares
These step-by-step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
How to Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 1](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-1.jpg)
1. In a mixing bowl, sieve the all-purpose flour.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 2](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-2.jpg)
2. Combine brown sugar, salt, and melted butter with the plain flour, blending until you achieve a crumbly texture.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 3](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-3.jpg)
3. Transfer the mixture into a baking pan measuring 20x20 cm (8x8 inches) lined with parchment paper.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 4](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-4.jpg)
4. Evenly flatten the mixture into a smooth layer using the bottom of a glass.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 5](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-5.jpg)
5. Place the crust in the preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 6](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-6.jpg)
6. After baking the crust, take the tin out of the oven and allow it to cool down a little.
How to Prepare the Lemon Topping:
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 7](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-7.jpg)
1. Combine lemon zest, sugar, and flour in a mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to blend the ingredients.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 8](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-8.jpg)
2. Extract juice from fresh lemons and set it aside for later use.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 9](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-9.jpg)
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine eggs and lemon juice, whisking until thoroughly incorporated.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 10](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-10.jpg)
4. Strain the egg mixture into the bowl containing the sugar, flour, and zest. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 11](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-11.jpg)
5. Drizzle the lemon topping mixture evenly over the warm crust.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 12](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-12.jpg)
6. Place the pan back into the oven and bake at 170°C (338°F) for approximately 15 minutes, or until the lemon topping sets and no longer wobbles when gently shaken.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 13](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-13.jpg)
7. Take it out of the oven and let it cool entirely in the pan on a wire rack before transferring to the refrigerator to chill for two hours.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 14](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-14-scaled.jpg)
8. After cooling, sprinkle the top of the lemon dessert squares with a light dusting of icing sugar.
![Lemon Dessert Squares process 15](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-15.jpg)
9. Slice the dessert into squares, serve, and enjoy these delightful lemon treats!
📖Variations
- Meyer Lemon Bars: Use Meyer lemons instead of regular lemons for a sweeter, more floral flavor. Meyer lemons are slightly less acidic and have a unique citrusy aroma.
- Lemon Lavender Bars: Infuse the shortbread crust or the lemon topping with dried culinary lavender for a subtle floral flavor. Be sure to use culinary lavender to ensure it's safe for consumption.
- Blueberry Lemon Bars: Scatter fresh or frozen blueberries over the lemon topping before baking. The combination of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon is delightful.
- Raspberry Lemon Bars: Swirl raspberry preserves into the lemon topping before baking for a beautiful marbled effect. The sweet-tart combination of raspberries and lemon is irresistible.
🔪Equipment
Check out all of my kitchen essentials in my Amazon Store! You can find the equipment I use in this recipe: Large Bowl, Strainer, Small Bowl, Spatula, Baking Pan, Baking Gloves, Grater, Cutting Board, Knife, Citrus Squeezer, Jug, Whisk, and Cake Server.
🍽 How to Serve
![Lemon Dessert Squares](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-process-16.jpg)
- As a Dessert: Lemon Dessert Squares can be served as a standalone dessert after a delicious meal like Chicken Pot Pie, Chicken One-Pot Rice(Spanish Rice), Juicy Skillet Pork Chops, or Pork Tenderloin.
- For Brunch: Serve Lemon Dessert Squares as part of a brunch spread alongside other sweet and savory dishes like Mini Lemon cheesecakes, Biscoff Cheesecake Cups, Chicken Skewers (Pinchitos de Pollo) or Fried Cheese Balls. They make a refreshing addition to any brunch menu.
- As a Snack: Lemon Dessert Squares can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack. Pack them in lunch boxes with Pasta Salad and Tuna Croquettes or take them on picnics with Chicken Croquettes, Spanish Tortilla, and Cold Stuffed Tomato Salad for a delicious treat on the go.
- As a Dessert Bar: Set up a dessert bar with a variety of desserts (Basque Cheesecake, Chocolate Cheesecake, Easy Strawberry Tart, and Strawberry Tiramisu Cake), including Lemon Dessert Squares. Allow guests to help themselves with their desired treats, creating a personalized dessert experience.
💭Tips for Recipe Success
Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. Avoid bottled lemon juice.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature before you begin baking. Room-temperature ingredients mix more evenly and result in a smoother texture.
Properly Measure Ingredients: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups/spoons to accurately measure your ingredients.
Don't Overmix the Crust: When making the shortbread crust, mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough crust.
Evenly Press the Crust: Press the shortbread crust evenly into the bottom of the pan using the bottom of a glass. An even crust ensures uniform baking and a consistent texture.
Use a Microplane for Zesting: Use a microplane grater or zester to zest the lemons. This tool creates fine zest without any bitter white pith, resulting in a more intense lemon flavor.
Bake Until Set: Bake the lemon squares until the top is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking, which can result in a dry texture.
Allow to Cool Completely: Allow the lemon squares to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly and makes for easier slicing.
Chill Before Serving: For cleaner slices, chill the lemon squares in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. This also enhances the flavors and makes them even more refreshing.
Dust with Icing Sugar Just Before Serving: Dust the top of the lemon squares with icing sugar just before serving to add a beautiful finishing touch.
❓FAQ
Absolutely! You can experiment with different citrus fruits to create your own unique flavor variations. Just keep in mind that the tartness and sweetness levels may vary depending on the fruit you choose.
To keep your lemon dessert squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days. If you need to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Of course! The powdered sugar adds a nice finishing touch and a bit of sweetness, but if you prefer less sweetness or want to skip it for dietary reasons, feel free to leave it out. The squares will still taste delicious.
🍛More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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🎥Watch my Videos
This video will show you the details and step-by-step instructions for making this fantastic Millionaire's Shortbread!
📖 Recipe
![Lemon Dessert Squares](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Dessert-Squares-3-360x360.jpg)
Lemon Dessert Squares
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 225 g Plain Flour
- 85 g Brown Sugar
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 120 g Butter
For the Lemon Topping:
- 3 tablespoon Lemon Zest
- 200 g Sugar
- 25 g Flour
- 200 ml Lemon Juice
- 4 Eggs
- Icing Sugar
Instructions
How to Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, sift the plain flour.
- Add brown sugar, salt and melted butter to the plain flour and mix well until fine crumbs form.
- Pour the mixture into a 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- Use the bottom of a glass to press the mixture down evenly into a flat layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Once the crust is baked, remove the tin from the oven and let cool slightly.
How to Prepare the Lemon Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, add lemon zest, sugar and flour and whisk well to combine.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice. Set aside.
- In another mixing bowl, add eggs and lemon juice, and whisk until well combined.
- Sieve the egg mixture into a bowl with the sugar, flour and zest. Whisk to combine and smooth.
- Pour the lemon topping mixture over the warm crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake at 170°C (338°F) for 15 minutes, or until the lemon topping is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before chilling in the refrigerator for two hours.
- Once cooled, dust the top of the lemon dessert squares with icing sugar.
- Cut into squares.
- Serve and enjoy these lemon dessert squares!
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
Sandra
I love how the powdered sugar on these lemon squares looks like a light dusting of snow. Such a pretty and delicious treat!