These lemon squares are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a luscious, creamy filling atop a crisp graham cracker crust. They’re simple to make, yet look and taste like they came from a fancy bakery!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hrs 40 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Calories per Serving: ~210 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
For the Crust:
🍪 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
🧈 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
🍬 1/4 cup granulated sugar
🧂 Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
🥛 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
🍋 4 large egg yolks
🍋 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
🍋 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Make the Crust:
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
3️⃣ Press & Bake the Crust:
Press mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
4️⃣ Make the Filling:
In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest until fully combined and smooth.
5️⃣ Fill & Bake:
Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
6️⃣ Chill:
Let cool to room temp, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
7️⃣ Slice & Serve:
Cut into squares and serve chilled. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or add whipped cream!
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍋 Bright, tangy lemon flavor balanced with rich creaminess
- 🧈 Buttery graham crust that won’t fall apart
- ❄️ Served cold — perfect for warm days or fresh endings
- 👩🍳 Only a few ingredients, no fancy tools needed!
💡 Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor — bottled won’t do!
- Line the pan with parchment for easy lifting and slicing.
- For extra flavor, stir in a dash of vanilla or coconut flakes to the crust.
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
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