Lemon square? Or lemon bar? either way they are DELICIOUS!
An incredibility underestimated dessert in my book. This bar features the perfect shortbread crust topped with a tangy, sweet curd that will make you grab for seconds! My chocolate sweet tooth may have some competition!
I used a pan that was a tad bit smaller than a 9×13, if you use a 9×13 keep an eye on the crust at 24 minutes. You want it light golden brown in some areas. It will bake more once the curd is poured on top.
Do not try to cut the recipe in half, I promise you all of these will be gone the next day!
Lemon Squares
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
For the filling:
- 4 eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 9×13 baking sheet with parchment.
- In a large bowl, add flour and powdered sugar together.
- Add soften butter, mash with a fork or hands into the flour mixture forming the dough. Keep mashing, it is a arm workout!
- Press firmly into the prepared pan.
- Bake 25 minutes or until lightly golden brown. No longer than 27 minutes.
- For the filling, in a standing mixer or hand beater, beat eggs until broken then add sugar. Beat on high until thick and pale in color, about 2 minutes.
- Turn mixer to medium, add juice and zest.
- Fold in the flour and baking powder.
- Remove pan from oven. Pour filling over crust.
- Bake another 28-35 minutes. You are looking for the center to be set, meaning BARELY even moves. IF you touch it and it wobbles, pop it back in in increments of 2 minutes. It is okay for the top to turn golden brown!
- Let cool in pan for 30-45 minutes to let set up.
- Lift parchment up from the side. Allow to completely cool to room temperature.
- Dust with extra powdered sugar, slice and enjoy!*
*Pro tip: Spray knife with Pam on both sides before slicing, this helps create smooth cuts!
