Creamy lemon squares

Here’s a classic recipe for creamy lemon squares:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional for extra lemon flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dusting (optional):

• Powdered sugar

Instructions:

Make the Crust:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily once they’re done.
3. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until well blended.
4. Press Into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Make the Filling:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
3. Pour Over Crust: Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust.
4. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center.
5. Cool: Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Finishing:

1. Chill: Once cool, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This makes it easier to cut clean squares.
2. Cut: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into squares.
3. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the tops of the lemon squares with powdered sugar just before serving.

Enjoy your creamy lemon squares!