If you’re looking for a delightful dessert to brighten up your day, you’ve found it with these Creamy Lemon Squares! With their sweet lemon taste and amazing flavor, they remind me of summer afternoons spent sipping lemonade. This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these squares are perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to whip up and always leave everyone smiling!

These Creamy Lemon Squares have a way of bringing sunshine into your kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, so you can enjoy delicious lemon squares without spending all day in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the bright flavor of lemon! These squares are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these squares ahead of time. Just refrigerate them after cooling for an even firmer texture.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy gatherings, these bars fit any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Creamy Lemon Squares. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
24 squares grachicken chicken ham crackers
¼ cup of sugar
2 egg yolks
1 can (12oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup of lemon juice

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with flavors or substitutions.

Add Zest: Mix in some fresh lemon zest for an extra citrus punch that elevates the flavor.
Berry Twist: Top the cooled lemon squares with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity addition.
Nutty Crust: Substitute grachicken chicken ham crackers with ground almonds or walnuts for a nutty twist on the crust.
Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical flair that complements the lemon nicely.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Squares

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crust will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Butter and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over two sides. This little trick helps you lift out the Creamy Lemon Squares later without any hassle!

Step 3: Make the Crust

Break up the grachicken chicken ham crackers and add them to a food processor. Pulse until crumbled, then combine them with sugar and melted butter. This mixture will create a deliciously crunchy base for our creamy filling.

Step 4: Press into Pan

Pour this crumble mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it firmly into the bottom and about an inch up the sides. A well-pressed crust holds everything together beautifully while baking.

Step 5: Bake the Crust

Bake your crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until lightly browned. Let it cool completely in the pan—this step is crucial because it helps maintain that lovely texture.

Step 6: Whisk Together Filling

While your crust cools, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks in a bowl until smooth. Then add fresh lemon juice and mix until well combined. This creamy filling will be the star of our show!

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Once your crust has cooled, pour that luscious creamy filling right on top. Bake again for another 15-20 minutes until set and golden around the edges. If you want firmer squares, let them cool at room temperature before refrigerating.

Step 8: Cut and Serve

Finally, remove your cooled creamy lemon square from the pan using those handy parchment paper handles. Place it on a cutting board and cut into either 16 mini squares or 9 larger ones—whatever suits your gathering best!

Enjoy every bite of these sunny delights; they’re sure to be a memorable treat!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Lemon Squares

Making the perfect creamy lemon squares is all about technique and a bit of love! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve that delightful balance of sweet and tart.

Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will enhance the flavor significantly compared to bottled juice, giving your squares that vibrant, zesty taste we all adore.
Cool the crust completely: Allowing the crust to cool fully before adding the filling ensures that the layers remain distinct. This prevents the filling from sinking into the crust, making for a perfectly layered treat.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your squares while they bake; overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture. You want them set but still a little jiggly in the center when you take them out—they’ll firm up as they cool!
Chill before cutting: Refrigerating your lemon squares after they’ve cooled to room temperature makes cutting them easier and helps them hold their shape. Plus, there’s something so refreshing about chilled lemon desserts!
Experiment with sweetness: If you like it sweeter, feel free to adjust the sugar in both the crust and filling. Just remember, the tanginess of the lemons should shine through!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Squares

Serving your creamy lemon squares in an appealing way can make all the difference at gatherings or family meals. Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dessert.

Garnishes

Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and enhances visual appeal without overpowering the lemon flavor.
Fresh mint leaves: A couple of mint leaves on each serving not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing contrast to the citrusy goodness of your squares.

Side Dishes

Whipped Coconut Cream: A fluffy dollop of coconut cream complements the tangy flavors beautifully and adds a delightful richness that balances out the citrus.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their sweetness and slight tartness pair wonderfully with lemon, making each bite more exciting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For those who enjoy a warm-cold combination, serve these squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess takes the experience up a notch!
Tea or Lemonade: Pair your creamy lemon squares with a cup of herbal tea or homemade lemonade for an extra citrusy experience. It’s like lemonade in dessert form—perfect for summer days!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your creamy lemon squares are sure to be a hit any time you whip them up! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These creamy lemon squares are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, ensuring you always have a delightful dessert on hand.

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Ensure the squares are completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

Cut the cooled lemon squares into portions.
Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

Thaw frozen lemon squares in the refrigerator overnight.
Serve chilled or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these creamy lemon squares:

Can I use fresh lemon juice for Creamy Lemon Squares?

Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor. Just be sure to strain it to avoid any pulp if you prefer a smoother texture.

How long do Creamy Lemon Squares last?

When stored properly in the fridge, these delicious treats can last up to 5 days. They also freeze well, making them a great make-ahead dessert!

Can I substitute other ingredients in Creamy Lemon Squares?

Yes! You can experiment with different types of crackers for the crust or use alternative sweeteners that suit your taste preferences.

What’s the best way to serve Creamy Lemon Squares?

They’re delightful served chilled straight from the refrigerator. Garnish with fresh berries or whipped coconut cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these creamy lemon squares! Their bright flavor and delightful texture make them truly special, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds with every bite. Happy baking!