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Easy Lemon Squares Recipe with Buttery Cookie Crust

lemon square, with powdered sugar dusted across the top layer, sitting atop a plate with blue and white chrysanthemum design, with a navy blue napkin laying next to it, which is sitting on top of a wood table.

When spring begins to hint at its arrival, I start craving flavors that feel fresh, bright, and perfect for enjoying outdoors. These lemon squares (sometimes called lemon bars) are one of the recipes I find myself returning to every year as the weather warms and the days grow longer. These citrus dessert bars are easy to make from scratch and feel like the perfect antidote to the end-of-winter doldrums.

I also like to keep this recipe in mind when planning a dessert table. My daughter-in-law shares my love of lemon desserts, and these lemon squares are always a welcome addition when we gather. Their bright citrus flavor pairs well with other sweets, and they add a cheerful note to any spring or summer spread.

This classic lemon squares recipe balances two wonderful layers. The base is a buttery cookie crust that bakes up slightly flaky and tender. I start with cold (not frozen) butter so the dough forms structure as it bakes, creating delicate pockets as the butter melts.

On top is a bright lemon filling that delivers just the right amount of sweet zinginess. The lemon layer is not overly thick, but it does not need to be. Paired with the buttery crust, the balance is just right: sweet, citrusy, and perfect with a cup of tea or enjoyed outside on a sunny afternoon.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 24
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

If you are looking for an easy lemon squares recipe with a buttery cookie crust and bright citrus flavor, these homemade lemon bars are a wonderful place to start. They come together with simple ingredients and are perfect for spring gatherings, dessert tables, or an afternoon treat with tea.

Ingredients
    Cookie Layer:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 cup butter , cold (unsalted)
    • Lemon Layer:
  • 2 cups cugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • Juice and zest from 2 lemons
    • Finishing Layer:
  • powdered sugar (to taste)
Instructions
    To make cookie layer:
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350.
  2. 2
    Mix the flour and sugar together.
  3. 3
    Cut butter into small pieces and work it into the flour and sugar mixture as you would a pie crust (use your fingers - smoosh the butter with the flour and sugar between your thumb and forefinger again and again until you get a crumbly mixture that comes together when you squeeze it in your fist).
  4. 4
    Pat this mixture into a 9x13 inch pan.
  5. 5
    Bake in your pre-heated oven 15 minutes or until a very light brown. Remove from the oven (but do not turn off the oven as you need it for the next layer).
    6. To make lemon layer:
  6. 6
    Mix the lemon layer ingredients in the order given. Pour over the baked cookie crust layer.
  7. 7
    Bake at 350 for 15 - 20 minutes or until set in the middle.
  8. 8
    Remove from the oven and let cool.
    9. To finish:
  9. 9
    Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Note

These lemon squares are a wonderful choice for a tea, brunch, or gathering where a light dessert feels just right. For entertaining, you can cut the squares into smaller, bite-sized pieces and dress them up with a simple garnish.

A single raspberry or blueberry placed on top of each square adds a lovely pop of color and pairs beautifully with the bright lemon flavor. A small mint leaf also makes a fresh and elegant garnish.

You can also use canned mandarin orange sections. If using mandarins, be sure to dry the sections carefully with a paper towel before placing them on the squares so the moisture does not dissolve the powdered sugar or create a runny mess. The citrus and berry garnishes create beautiful color contrast and make the dessert tray especially inviting.

Keywords: easy lemon squares, homemade lemon squares, lemon bars recipe, lemon dessert bars, lemon squares with buttery crust, classic lemon bars, lemon bars with shortbread crust
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