Description
Citrusy zest meets sweet perfection in these sunny lemon squares, blending tangy brightness with a buttery shortbread crust. Rich lemon custard and delicate powdered sugar create a refreshing dessert that promises pure Mediterranean-inspired delight for you.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup coconut oil
Produce:
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Baking & Spices:
- 2 1/3 cups flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (175°C) and preparing the baking dish with a light coating of grease or parchment paper.
- Create a delicate crust foundation by blending flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then incorporate melted coconut oil to bind the ingredients.
- Press the crumbly crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring a uniform layer that will provide a crisp base for the tangy filling.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, watching for a gentle golden transformation that signals the perfect preliminary stage.
- While the crust bakes, craft the zesty lemon filling by whisking together sugar and flour to eliminate any potential lumps.
- Introduce fresh eggs to the sugar mixture, then infuse with vibrant lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice, creating a smooth, sunshine-colored custard.
- Once the crust emerges golden and slightly firm, carefully pour the lemon filling over the hot surface, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, watching for a subtle set and a slight jiggle in the center that indicates perfect consistency.
- Allow the lemon squares to cool completely at room temperature, which helps the filling stabilize and develop its signature texture.
- Finish by delicately dusting the cooled dessert with a light veil of powdered sugar, transforming the squares into an elegant, inviting treat.
Notes
- Customize the crust by swapping coconut oil with butter for a classic flavor or using gluten-free flour for a dietary-friendly version.
- Enhance lemon intensity by adding extra zest or using Meyer lemons for a sweeter, more aromatic citrus profile.
- Prevent soggy bottom by ensuring the initial crust is fully baked and golden before adding the lemon filling, creating a crisp foundation.
- Make ahead and refrigerate for cleaner, more precise cuts when serving, allowing the squares to set completely and develop a firmer texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 63 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 186 mg