Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the squares out easily after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender, two forks, or your hands, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven but keep the oven on.
Preparing the Filling:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/4 cup flour. This helps to thicken the filling.
- Add Wet Ingredients: To the sugar and flour mixture, add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
- Bake: Pour the filling over the baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and does not jiggle when the pan is gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the lemon squares from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, until fully set.
Serving:
- Cut into Squares: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the lemon squares out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Just before serving, sift powdered sugar over the top of the squares for a beautiful finish and extra sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Lemon Squares:
- Fresh Lemons: Use fresh lemons for the zest and juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can’t compare to the bright, fresh taste of real lemons.
- Smooth Filling: To ensure a smooth, creamy filling, whisk the eggs and sugar well to dissolve the sugar completely before adding the other ingredients.
- Chill Well: Allowing the squares to chill thoroughly makes them easier to cut and enhances the flavor.
Creamy Lemon Squares are a delightful treat that marries the bold flavor of lemon with a creamy, luscious texture. Whether you’re serving them as a refreshing end to a meal or as a treat to brighten a mid-afternoon break, they’re bound to be a hit. Enjoy the process of baking and the joy of sharing these delicious squares with friends and family.