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–+ servings

Old-Fashioned Lemon Squares

These old-fashioned lemon squares feature a buttery shortbread crust, bright lemon filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar. They're an easy make-ahead dessert for potlucks, baby showers, luncheons, and summer gatherings.

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 42 minutes
Cooling and Chill Time 3 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 squares

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling

  • 5 large eggs
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice about 4-5 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to lift the bars out later.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the flour and salt and mix just until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake the crust for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until smooth and well combined.
  • Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
  • Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer appears wet. The filling should have only a slight jiggle in the center when the pan is gently shaken.
  • Place the pan on a wire rack and allow the lemon squares to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
  • Transfer the cooled pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold.
  • Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Dust generously with powdered sugar and cut into squares before serving.

Notes

  • Fresh lemon juice gives these bars the brightest flavor.
  • Don't skip the chilling time. It helps the filling finish setting and makes the bars easier to slice cleanly.
  • Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the prettiest presentation.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keyword old-fashioned lemon squares
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