Best 20 Lemon Squares Recipes

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Are you looking for a delightful treat that blends tangy and sweet flavors? Look no further than lemon squares! These classic dessert bars feature a rich and creamy lemon filling nestled between two layers of buttery shortbread crust. With their bright yellow hue and irresistible citrus flavor, lemon squares are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or a modern twist, there's a lemon square recipe out there to satisfy every palate. In this article, we'll explore some of the best lemon square recipes, providing you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your lemon squares turn out perfectly every time.

Let's cook with our recipes!

BEST LEMON SQUARES



Best Lemon Squares image

I'd lost my family recipe for lemon squares and spent a lot of time trying new ones that would measure up. None did, but thankfully I recently found the recipe again. Best lemon squares out there.

Provided by beth

Categories     Desserts     Fruit Dessert Recipes     Lemon Dessert Recipes

Time 1h30m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 11

cooking spray
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold butter
½ cup confectioners' sugar
2 cups white sugar
4 eggs
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup lemon juice, or more to taste
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon lemon zest, or to taste
confectioners' sugar for dusting

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Process 2 cups flour, butter, and 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar in a food processor until mixture resembles coarse crumbs; press into the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until the edges of the crust are golden brown, 18 to 22 minutes. Cool crust to room temperature.
  • Beat white sugar, eggs, 1/4 cup flour, lemon juice, baking powder, and lemon zest together in a bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy; pour onto the cooled crust.
  • Bake in the oven until custard is set, 25 to 28 minutes. Cool lemon squares completely; dust the top with more confectioners' sugar.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 398.2 calories, Carbohydrate 57.7 g, Cholesterol 102.7 mg, Fat 17.3 g, Fiber 0.7 g, Protein 4.7 g, SaturatedFat 10.3 g, Sodium 162.9 mg, Sugar 39.4 g

CREAMY LEMON SQUARES



Creamy Lemon Squares image

The creamy lemon squares of your dreams take just 15 minutes of prep: Stir together a mere three ingredients to create a sunny, puckery filling for the buttery shortbread crust in this dessert.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cookie Recipes

Time 45m

Yield Makes 16

Number Of Ingredients 7

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar, plus more for dusting
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour, (spooned and leveled)
4 large egg yolks
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
3/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3 lemons)

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter an 8-inch square baking pan. Line bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides; butter paper.
  • Make crust: Using an electric mixer, beat butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. Add flour, and mix on low just until combined. Press dough into the bottom and 1/2 inch up sides of prepared pan; prick all over with a fork. Bake until lightly golden, 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Make filling: In a large bowl, whisk together yolks, condensed milk, and lemon juice until smooth. Pour over hot crust in pan; return to oven, and bake until filling is set, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool completely in pan.
  • Refrigerate until filling is firm, about 2 hours or up to 3 days. Using paper overhang, lift cake onto a work surface; cut into 16 squares, and dust with confectioners sugar.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 189 g, Fat 9 g, Protein 4 g

LEMON SQUARES



Lemon Squares image

Lemon squares combine the wonderful flavor of freshly squeezed lemon juice with just a few staples such as sugar, flour, eggs, and milk in this simple Lemon Squares dessert. But not only the ingredients are simple-the recipe is too.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cookie Recipes

Time 1h10m

Yield Makes about two dozen 2-inch squares

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, frozen
3/4 cup confectioner's sugar, plus more for dusting
3/4 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
1/4 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish; line dish with waxed paper.
  • Make crust: An adult should grate butter on a cheese grater with large holes. In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners' sugar, and salt. Add butter; stir with a wooden spoon until combined and mixture looks crumbly.
  • Transfer mixture to baking dish; press evenly onto bottom with your hands. Chill crust in freezer 15 minutes. Bake until slightly golden, 16 to 18 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, make filling: In a large (1 quart) liquid measuring cup, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and milk.
  • An adult should remove crust from the oven and pour filling mixture over hot crust. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees and bake until filling is set and edges are slightly golden brown, about 18 minutes. An adult should remove dish from the oven. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Grip paper; lift out dessert, and set on cutting board. With a sieve, dust with confectioners' sugar. Cut into squares.

LEMON SQUARES



Lemon Squares image

I'm expected to bring these bars to bridal showers and family gatherings. The combination of sweet and tart tastes is sure to please. -Mary Larson, Maplewood, Minnesota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 40m

Yield 4 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 cups cold butter
TOPPING:
6 eggs, lightly beaten
3 cups sugar
1/2 cup lemon juice
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Confectioners' sugar

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, combine the flour, confectioners' sugar and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Pat into a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Bake 16-20 minutes or until set and top is golden brown., For topping, combine the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Pour over crust (pan will be full). Bake 16-20 minutes or until set and top is golden brown. Cool. Dust with confectioners' sugar. Cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 145 calories, Fat 6g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 42mg cholesterol, Sodium 128mg sodium, Carbohydrate 21g carbohydrate (14g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 2g protein.

CRANBERRY-LEMON SQUARES



Cranberry-Lemon Squares image

These tart squares use lemon and dried cranberries instead of fresh, so you can make them for dessert any time of year.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cookie Recipes

Yield Makes about 16

Number Of Ingredients 7

6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into 12 pieces, plus more for pan
1 1/2 cups dried cranberries, (about 7 ounces, available at specialty-food stores)
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar, plus more for dusting
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup freshly squeezed plus 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice, (about 3 lemons)

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Butter an 8-inch square baking pan, and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries and 2 cups water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook, stirring occasionally, until water has been absorbed, about 25 minutes.
  • Transfer cranberry mixture to bowl of a food processor; chop coarsely. Transfer to a bowl, and set aside.
  • In bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine confectioners' sugar and 3/4 cup flour. Add butter, beating on low speed until mixture forms pea-size pieces. Press batter into baking pan.
  • Bake until golden, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.
  • Beat eggs and granulated sugar until smooth. Add lemon juice; beat to combine. Add remaining 1/4 cup flour, and beat to combine; set lemon mixture aside.
  • Reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees. Spread cranberry mixture over cooked crust. Pour lemon mixture over the cranberry mixture. Bake until set, about 40 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool, 40 minutes. Chill 4 hours. To serve, cut into squares, and dust with confectioners' sugar.

LEMON CHEESECAKE SQUARES



Lemon Cheesecake Squares image

This smooth square summertime dessert combines rich, lemony cheesecake and a sweet graham-cracker crust.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cookie Recipes

Time 3h

Yield Makes 16

Number Of Ingredients 7

8 graham crackers (each 2 1/2 by 5 inches)
2 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 bars (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon (2 to 3 teaspoons zest and about 3 tablespoons juice)

Steps:

  • Make the crust: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on all sides. Crimp overhang under rim of pan.
  • In a food processor, blend graham crackers with sugar until finely ground; add butter and pulse until moistened.
  • Transfer crumb mixture to prepared pan, and pat in gently (wipe processor bowl clean, and reserve for making filling). Bake until beginning to brown, 10 to 12 minutes. While crust is baking, make filling.
  • Make the filling: Place cream cheese in food processor; blend until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice; blend until smooth.
  • Pour mixture onto hot crust in pan; smooth top. Return to oven, and bake until set (filling should jiggle only slightly when pan is gently shaken), 30 to 35 minutes.
  • Cool completely in pan. Cover very loosely with plastic wrap; chill until firm, at least 2 hours (and up to 2 days). Use foil overhang to lift cheesecake out of pan. With metal spatula, lift cheesecake from foil; cut into 16 squares.

LEMON COCONUT SQUARES



Lemon Coconut Squares image

Make and share this Lemon Coconut Squares recipe from Food.com.

Provided by AZPARZYCH

Categories     Dessert

Time 50m

Yield 24 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
3/4 cup cold butter or 3/4 cup margarine
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup flaked coconut

Steps:

  • In a bowl, combine flour and confectioners' sugar; cut in the butter until crumbly. Press onto the bottom of a lightly greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, lemon juice and baking powder until well mixed. Pour over crust; sprinkle coconut evenly over the top.
  • Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

LAYERED LEMON DESSERT SQUARES



Layered Lemon Dessert Squares image

I found this recipe in an old cookbook and changed it to be extra citrusy. If you're a fan of Key lime pie, substitute lime for the lemon flavors. -Dawn E. Lowenstein, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 30m

Yield 15 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

3-1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1-3/4 cups sugar, divided
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1-1/4 cups butter, melted
2 packages (8 ounces each ) cream cheese, softened
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon lemon extract
2 jars (10 ounces each) lemon curd or 1 can (15-3/4 ounces) lemon pie filling

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, mix cracker crumbs, 3/4 cup sugar and cinnamon; stir in butter. Reserve half of mixture for topping. Press remaining crumb mixture onto bottom of a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and remaining sugar until smooth. Gradually beat in cream and extract until soft peaks form. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over crust. Gently spread lemon curd over cream cheese layer. Spread with remaining cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle with reserved cracker crumb mixture. Refrigerate, covered, overnight. Freeze option: After assembling; cover and freeze dessert. To use, thaw in refrigerator overnight.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 676 calories, Fat 42g fat (25g saturated fat), Cholesterol 136mg cholesterol, Sodium 361mg sodium, Carbohydrate 71g carbohydrate (56g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 5g protein.

LUSCIOUS LEMON SQUARES



Luscious Lemon Squares image

Provided by Food Network

Categories     dessert

Time 1h15m

Yield 20 to 24

Number Of Ingredients 9

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, cut into small cubes
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. For the crust: In a food processor, blend ingredients until they resemble coarse meal. Press mixture into the bottom of a 13 by 9-inch pan. Bake until set and golden, about 20 minutes. Cool. For the filling: In a bowl, beat eggs, sugar and lemon juice together. Add flour and baking powder, blending only long enough to incorporate. Pour filling into baked crust and bake until set, about 25 minutes. Cool. Dust with powdered sugar before cutting. Cut into squares.

LEMON CHESS SQUARES



Lemon Chess Squares image

A fellow in work brought in a lemon chess pie one day and he said his wife made it. It was delish and I asked him to get the recipe for me. He came back with, "His wife doesn't share her recipes, but she will be glad to make you one for a price". Well, needless to say, I went looking for my own recipe and came across this one,...

Provided by Carolyn Stewart

Categories     Cookies

Time 1h10m

Number Of Ingredients 8

CRUST
1 box lemon cake mix with pudding
1 egg
1 stick butter, softened 1/2 cup.
FILLING
3 eggs, beaten
1 box powdered sugar, sifted
1 pkg 8oz. cream cheese, softened

Steps:

  • 1. Mix Crust ingredients and press into bottom of 9 x 13 inch pan. Mix and pour filling ingredients over crust. Bake at 325 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.
  • 2. My notes: If you cannot find the Lemon Cake Mix with pudding, simply add a box of instant lemon pudding to the dry cake mix. Spray pan with Pam or Baking Spray to make removal easy. Let cook completely before cutting into squares. These are very rich so keep squares more like bar size. They don't seem to need to be refrigerated and lasted up to 3 days on my counter. I took half the pan to work and they were GONE. Good Recipe!!! I will post a picture the next time I make them. From the kitchen of Carolyn the Crafty Gourmet

NO BAKE LEMON SQUARES



No Bake Lemon Squares image

I learned this recipe at school in my home economics class many, many years ago. It was such a hit, it was my job to make these on every special occasion. They are very tart with the lemon juice. You can use either fresh squeezed lemon or lemon juice from the bottle. I find that fresh lemons are a hit and miss with the strength of the tartness so I generally use the bottled juice. If you use fresh, you can also grate some lemon peel into the filling.

Provided by DeeDee

Categories     Dessert

Time 30m

Yield 36 squares

Number Of Ingredients 6

32 -36 graham crackers
1 (300 ml) can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, or bottled
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 cup icing sugar
2 1/2-3 teaspoons lemon juice

Steps:

  • FILLING.
  • In a small bowl, mix Condensed Milk with the 1/4 cup Lemon Juice. It will appear runny at first but when it sits, it thickens. Set aside.
  • In a square container (I use a Tupperware square container that I can seal with the lid) line with graham crackers. You will have to cut some crackers to fit. Take a bread and butter knife and gently saw through the cracker until it cuts through.
  • Top with the lemon mixture.
  • Top the lemon mixture with another layer of graham crackers. Again, you will have to cut some to fit around the edges.
  • ICING.
  • Cream the butter with a bit of the icing sugar until there are no lumps left. Add more icing sugar a bit at a time until it's too hard to stir. Add a tsp of lemon juice and mix until smooth again and no lumps remain. Keep alternating icing sugar and lemon juice until its of spreading consistency.
  • Spread over top layer of graham crackers.
  • Cover and let sit over night.
  • Cut into squares and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 75.3, Fat 1.8, SaturatedFat 0.9, Cholesterol 4.3, Sodium 45.5, Carbohydrate 13.8, Fiber 0.2, Sugar 10.8, Protein 1.2

LEMON CREAM CHEESE SQUARES



Lemon Cream Cheese Squares image

Portable cheesecake, rich and tart!Adapted from the All Butter Fresh Cream Sugar Packed No Holds Barred Baking Book by Judy Rosenberg!

Provided by Sharon123

Categories     Cheesecake

Time 1h50m

Yield 12-16 bars

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 cup flour
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into 8 pieces
1 egg white, for glazing
10 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup sugar, plus
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1/4 cup sour cream, plus
1 tablespoon sour cream, room temperature
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350*F. Lightly grease an 8" square baking pan with butter.
  • For the base:.
  • Process the flour and confectoner's sugar in a food processor for several seconds. Add the butter and process until the dough comes together, 20 to 30 seconds.
  • Pat the dough gently over the bottom of prepared pan and about 1" up the sides. Glaze it with the egg white: Pour the egg white on the dough and tip the pan from side to side so the white spreads over the surface. Pour off the excess.
  • Bake the base on the center oven rack until golden, about 25 minutes. Place the base in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to cool completely. Keep on the oven.
  • Meanwhile prepare the topping:.
  • Using an electric mixer on medium high speed, cream the cream cheese, sugar, and lemon zest together in a medium bowl till light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Stop the mixer once or twice to scrape the bowl with a rubber spatula.
  • Add the sour cream and lemon juice and beat the mixture on medium high speed until smooth, about 1 minute. Scrape the bowl.
  • Add the eggs and vanilla and beat on medium high speed until smooth and creamy,about 10 seconds. Spread the topping evenly over the base.
  • Bake the bars on the center oven rack until the top is slightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out dry, about 1 hour. If the topping bubbles up during baking, prick the bubbles with a toothpick or a thin knife.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely on a rack. Cut them with the point of a thin sharp knife that is dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut.

LEMON CREAM SQUARES



Lemon Cream Squares image

Provided by Sandra Lee

Categories     dessert

Time 1h5m

Yield 15 squares

Number Of Ingredients 7

One 18.25-ounce box lemon cake mix (recommended: Betty Crocker)
1 stick butter, softened
1 egg
16 ounces cream cheese (recommended: Philadelphia) softened
1/3 cup sugar
One 3-ounce box lemon or lime gelatin (recommended: Jell-O)
2 eggs

Steps:

  • Set up grill for indirect cooking over medium heat. (No heat source under cookies). Spray 9 by 13-inch foil pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  • For lemon layer:
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat with an electric mixer on low speed the cake mix, butter, and egg until well combined and smooth. Press cake mixture evenly into prepared pan; set aside.
  • For top layer:
  • In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and lemon or lime gelatin on medium speed until creamy. Add eggs and beat until smooth.
  • Spread cream cheese mixture over cake layer. Place foil pan in a second foil pan for stability and insulation. Place on hot grill away from heat. Cover and bake 40 to 50 minutes. Rotate pan halfway through baking. Remove from grill and cool completely before cutting into squares.
  • Indoor:
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Spray 9 by 13-inch baking pan lightly with cooking spray; set aside. Prepare cake layers as directed above. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until cake barely start to pull away from sides. Cool completely before cutting into squares.

LEMON COCONUT PARTY SQUARES



Lemon Coconut Party Squares image

I love these no bake Lemon Coconut Squares, as I love anything with lemon in it. They are really popular in Australia and you often get them at morning and afternoon teas.

Provided by JustJanS

Categories     Bar Cookie

Time 20m

Yield 1 Tray

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
4 ounces butter
8 ounces milk arrowroot biscuits, finely crushed (a plain sweet cookie)
1 teaspoon grated fresh lemon rind
1 cup coconut
1 3/4 cups icing sugar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 ounce butter
2 tablespoons coconut

Steps:

  • Put condensed milk and butter in a small pan, stir over gentle heat until butter has melted and mixture is combined.
  • Add lemon rind and coconut to biscuit crumbs, mix well.
  • Add butter and milk mixture to crumb mixture, mix together well with your hands.
  • Press into a greased lamington tray (11in x 7in).
  • Refrigerate 1 hour.
  • Ice with lemon icing, sprinkle with coconut.
  • When the icing has set, cut into squares.
  • Lemon Icing: Combine sifted icing sugar, lemon juice and soft butter in a bowl.
  • Mix well to make a smooth icing.

LEMON MERINGUE DESSERT SQUARES



Lemon Meringue Dessert Squares image

If you love lemon meringue like I do, you will enjoy this great little variation. It comes from a Pillsbury cookbook, "Best of the Bake-off". Time to cool (an additional 2 hours) is not included in prep time.

Provided by SharleneW

Categories     Dessert

Time 55m

Yield 12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 package pudding-included yellow cake mix
1/2 cup butter
1 egg
1 1/3 cups sugar
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 dash salt
1 3/4 cups water
4 egg yolks, slightly beaten (reserve whites for meringue)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons grated lemons, rind of
1/2 cup lemon juice
4 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup sugar

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 350°F.
  • Grease 13x9-inch pan.
  • In large bowl, combine cake mix, 1/2 cup butter and egg.
  • Mix at low speed until crumbly.
  • Press mixture in bottom of greased pan.
  • In medium saucepan, combine 1 1/3 cups sugar, cornstarch and salt.
  • Gradually stir in water; blend until smooth.
  • Cook over medium heat until mixture boils, stirring constantly.
  • Remove from heat.
  • Stir about 1/2 cup of the hot mixture into the egg yolks; return egg mixture to saucepan.
  • Cook until mixture is bubbly.
  • (Mixture will be very thick.) Remove from heat; stir in 2 tablespoons butter, lemon peel and lemon juice.
  • Pour filling over crust.
  • In small bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar at medium speed until soft peaks form, about 1 minute.
  • Add 1/2 cup sugar (1 tablespoon at a time) beating at high speed until stiff peaks form and sugar is dissolved.
  • Spread meringue over hot filling.
  • Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until meringue is golden brown.
  • Cool 1 hour.
  • Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
  • Cut into squares.
  • Hint: To cut perfect slices of meringue desserts, dip knife in water before cutting.
  • After each cut, wipe knife clean and dip it in water again.

TANGY LEMON SQUARES



Tangy Lemon Squares image

With their crisp, buttery crust and creamy lemon filling, these little squares taste of spring. Have some with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Dessert & Treats Recipes     Cookie Recipes

Time 2h15m

Yield Makes 16

Number Of Ingredients 12

Non-stick cooking spray
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
1/3 cup confectioners' sugar, plus 1 tablespoon for sifting
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees, with rack in center. Coat a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray; line pan with two crisscrossed rectangles of parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on all sides.
  • Make the crust: In a food processor, pulse flour with confectioners' sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add butter; pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into bottom and 3/4 inch up sides of prepared pan. Refrigerate 15 minutes.
  • Bake until crust is lightly browned 20 minutes. Let cool slightly in pan. Reduce oven heat to 325 degrees.
  • Meanwhile, make the lemon filling: In a bowl, beat eggs with an electric mixer until thick. Beat in granulated sugar, lemon juice, flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour over warm crust. Bake until set, about 20 minutes. Cool to room temperature; refrigerate about 1 hour.
  • Using paper overhang as an aid, lift square from pan. Sift remaining tablespoon confectioners' sugar over the top. Cut into 16 squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 169 g, Fat 7 g, Protein 2 g

LEMON CHEESECAKE SQUARES



Lemon Cheesecake Squares image

Whether I'm hosting friends or sending a plate to work with my husband, these creamy elegant cheesecake squares are always a hit. It's a wonderful make-ahead dessert that easily serves a large group.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 1h

Yield 20 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 13

3/4 cup shortening
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam
FILLING:
4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1-1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup lemon juice
4 teaspoons grated lemon zest
4 large eggs, lightly beaten

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, cream shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Combine the flour, oats and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well., Press dough into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Bake at 350° for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Spread with jam., Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar and flour until smooth. Beat in lemon juice and zest. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Carefully spoon over jam. , Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack. Cover and store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 262 calories, Fat 13g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 55mg cholesterol, Sodium 78mg sodium, Carbohydrate 34g carbohydrate (23g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

LEMON SHORTBREAD SQUARES



Lemon Shortbread Squares image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     dessert

Number Of Ingredients 0

Steps:

  • Make Classic Shortbread dough, beating 1 teaspoon lemon zest with the butter. Mix 2 cups confectioners' sugar with the zest and juice of 1 lemon. Spread over the finished shortbread and sprinkle with yellow decorating sugar. Slice into squares.

LEMON CHEESE SQUARES



Lemon Cheese Squares image

With a tangy filling and a nutmeg-flavored crust, this dessert hits the spot after a meal or as a snack. My grandmother made these bars for me when I was growing up, and they were my favorite.-Emily Weedman, Milwaukie, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 1h5m

Yield 9 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

1/3 cup stick margarine, softened
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
FILLING:
1 cup 4% cottage cheese
1 large egg
1 large egg white
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Steps:

  • In a bowl, cream margarine and brown sugar. Combine the flour, salt and nutmeg; gradually add to creamed mixture. Press into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake at 350° for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown., For filling, place the cottage cheese, egg, egg white and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Cover and process until smooth. Add the sugar, flour, lemon zest and baking powder; cover and process until blended. Pour over crust. , Bake at 350° for 30-34 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Refrigerate until chilled. Cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 264 calories, Fat 8g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 29mg cholesterol, Sodium 247mg sodium, Carbohydrate 42g carbohydrate (29g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 6g protein.

MAKEOVER FROSTY LEMON SQUARES



Makeover Frosty Lemon Squares image

This dessert has a lemony filling sandwiched between two creamy layers and a crunchy crust. What's not to love? Simple changes in the original recipe subtracted a lot of the calories and saturated fat, but left a ton of great lemon flavor and a rich cream cheese layer. -Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 45m

Yield 20 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 22

1/4 cup butter, softened
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup ground pecans
CREAM CHEESE LAYER:
1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
1 package (8 ounces) fat-free cream cheese
3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1 carton (8 ounces) frozen reduced-fat whipped topping, thawed
LEMON LAYER:
1-1/4 cups sugar
6 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1-1/4 cups water
3/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
3 to 4 drops yellow food coloring, optional
TOPPING:
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 carton (8 ounces) frozen reduced-fat whipped topping, thawed

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour and cornstarch (mixture will be crumbly). Stir in pecans. Press into a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 14-16 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack., In a large bowl, beat cream cheeses and confectioners' sugar until fluffy. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust. Cover and freeze for 1 hour., Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, salt and water until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in the lemon juice, butter, lemon zest and food coloring if desired. Transfer to a bowl; refrigerate for 1 hour., Spread lemon mixture over cream cheese layer. Cover and freeze for 1 hour. Fold lemon zest into whipped topping; spread over lemon layer. Cover and freeze for up to 1 month. Remove from the freezer 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 240 calories, Fat 10g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 18mg cholesterol, Sodium 164mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (21g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 3g protein.

Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Squares

  • Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor for lemon squares. Avoid using bottled or concentrated lemon juice to ensure a tart and bright taste.
  • Zest the Lemons: Zesting the lemons adds an extra layer of citrus flavor to the filling. Be sure to use a fine grater to get the most out of the zest.
  • Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough crust. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to achieve a tender and flaky texture.
  • Chill the Dough Before Baking: Chilling the dough before baking helps to prevent it from spreading too much in the oven. This results in a thicker, more evenly baked crust.
  • Don't Overbake the Lemon Squares: Overbaking can dry out the lemon squares. Keep a close eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  • Use Powdered Sugar for the Glaze: Powdered sugar creates a smooth and glossy glaze that sets quickly. Regular granulated sugar will not work as well.
  • Chill the Lemon Squares Before Serving: Chilling the lemon squares allows the filling to set and the glaze to firm up. This results in a cleaner and more elegant presentation.

Conclusion

Lemon squares are a classic dessert that are both delicious and easy to make. With a few simple tips, you can create perfect lemon squares that will impress your friends and family. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or a more modern variation, there's a lemon square recipe out there for everyone. So preheat your oven and get ready to enjoy this timeless treat!

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