Creamy Lemon Squares Recipe

Ingredients:

Crust:

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

Filling:

• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
   2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   3. Gradually add in the 2 cups flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt, mixing until combined.
   4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
   5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, 3 cups granulated sugar, and lemon zest until well combined.
   2. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
   3. Sift the 1 cup flour, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt into the egg mixture, and whisk until smooth and well combined.
   4. Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust.
3. Bake the Lemon Squares:
   1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
   2. Remove from the oven and let the lemon squares cool completely in the pan.
4. Finish and Serve:
   1. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the lemon squares out of the pan.
   2. Dust the top generously with powdered sugar.
   3. Cut into squares and serve.

Best Paragraph:

The essence of the perfect lemon square lies in the harmonious blend of tart and sweet, with a rich, buttery crust that crumbles delicately with each bite. The filling, a luscious lemon curd, strikes the ideal balance of tanginess and sweetness, enhanced by the bright zest and fresh juice of sun-ripened lemons. As you dust the top with powdered sugar, the creamy, vibrant filling contrasts beautifully with the snowy white topping, creating a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Each square offers a burst of citrusy delight, making it a timeless treat that brings a ray of sunshine to any occasion.