Creamy Lemon Squares recipe
There’s something irresistibly delightful about a tangy, sweet dessert, and these creamy lemon bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich lemon filling, and a light, fluffy whipped cream topping, they deliver a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite. If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant dessert that combines a zesty kick with a creamy texture, look no further.
The magic of these creamy lemon bars lies in their contrasting textures and flavors. The crunchy, slightly salty graham cracker crust sets the stage for the luscious lemon filling, which is rich yet not overly sweet. This is balanced by the smooth, airy whipped cream on top, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether served at a summer picnic, holiday gathering, or a cozy night in, these lemon bars are sure to be a hit.
Making these creamy lemon bars is easier than you might think, with just a few simple steps and ingredients. Even if you’re a beginner baker, this recipe will guide you through creating a dessert that looks stunning and tastes divine. Let’s dive in!
Irresistible Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Bars
- Graham cracker crumbs – Provides a sturdy, slightly sweet base that complements the tartness of the lemon filling.
- Salted butter – Adds richness and a hint of salt to balance the sweetness of the crust.
- Egg yolks – Helps thicken the filling, giving it a custard-like texture while adding richness.
- Lemon zest – Infuses the filling with a fresh, aromatic citrus flavor.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice – The star of the show! Delivers a bright, tangy taste that defines this dessert.
- Sweetened condensed milk – Provides creaminess and sweetness, balancing the tart lemon juice.
- Cold heavy cream – Whipped to perfection, adds a light, fluffy topping that contrasts with the dense filling.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream without making it grainy.
Simple Steps to Create Creamy Lemon Bars
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a food processor until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of an 11″x7″ baking pan and bake for 10 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Set aside to cool while keeping the oven on.
- Whisk the egg yolks and lemon zest with an electric mixer until the mixture is thick and pale. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to mix.
- Slowly add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is just set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
- To prepare the topping, beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread evenly over the chilled lemon bars and garnish with lemon zest or slices.
Recipe Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to achieving the bright, tangy flavor that makes these bars so delicious.
- Chill well: Ensure the lemon bars are thoroughly chilled before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a slightly less sweet topping, reduce the powdered sugar in the whipped cream.
Delicious Variations to Try
For a fun twist on these creamy lemon bars, consider swapping the lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different citrus flavor. Add a handful of shredded coconut to the graham cracker crust for added texture and tropical notes. You could also drizzle melted white chocolate over the bars before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Storing Your Creamy Lemon Bars
To keep these creamy lemon bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe container, where they will keep for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving, and enjoy them chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy these creamy lemon bars as a delightful dessert or snack, and watch them disappear at any gathering!
Creamy Lemon Squares Recipe
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons salted butter melted
For the Filling:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3 teaspoons lemon zest freshly grated
- 1 ⅓ cups lemon juice freshly squeezed (from about 5-6 large lemons)
- 2 cans sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
- ½ cup heavy cream cold
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
To Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, blend the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture has the consistency of wet sand.
- Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of an 11″x 7″ baking pan. If you only have a 9″x 9″ square dish, it can be used, but the bars will be slightly thicker.
- Bake the crust in the oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool while leaving the oven on.
To Prepare the Filling:
- Using an electric mixer, whip the egg yolks with the lemon zest until the mixture becomes very thick, about 5 minutes.
- Gradually incorporate the sweetened condensed milk in a steady stream while continuing to mix constantly.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and blend until fully combined. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the filling is just set. Allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
To Make the Topping:
- Whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until it forms soft peaks.
- Evenly spread the whipped cream over the chilled lemon bars. Garnish with additional lemon zest or slices, if desired. Store the bars in the refrigerator until ready to serve.