Lemon Delight Squares are a burst of sunshine on your plate. With a buttery crust and a tangy lemon filling, these squares are a perfect blend of sweet and citrusy. Ideal for a summer picnic or a cozy winter treat, they bring a bit of zest to any occasion.
Start with all-purpose flour, the backbone of our crust, providing structure and a tender bite. The unsalted butter, when softened, blends seamlessly to create a rich and flaky base. A touch of powdered sugar in the crust adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the lemony top. For the filling, eggs are crucial. They give the filling its firm yet creamy texture, while granulated sugar sweetens it up, balancing the tartness of the lemon. A hint of baking powder ensures the filling has a light, airy quality. The star of the show, lemon juice and zest, deliver that bright, citrus kick that makes these squares irresistible. Finally, a dusting of powdered sugar gives them a picture-perfect finish.
Serve these Lemon Delight Squares slightly chilled for the best flavor. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a special touch, garnish with a thin slice of lemon or a sprig of mint.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to grease a 9x9 inch baking dish. This will ensure your squares come out cleanly later. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, softened butter, and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Mix these ingredients until they form a dough. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish.
Pop the crust into the oven and let it bake for about 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. While that's baking, focus on the filling. In another bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take just a few minutes. Add in the baking powder, 2 tablespoons of flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix everything until well combined.
Once the crust is ready, pour the lemon filling over it. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. You'll know it's done when the filling is set and has a slight golden hue.
Let the dish cool completely before slicing. This patience pays off with cleaner cuts. Finally, dust the top with powdered sugar for that final touch of sweetness.