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Lemon Squares with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe

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4.4 from 4 reviews

These perfectly tart and sweet lemon squares feature a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious lemon filling, making them an easy and crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion. With a crisp base and a velvety tangy topping, these lemon bars are a delightful treat that can be quickly prepared and chilled to let flavors meld beautifully.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 37 minutes
  • Yield: 9 lemon squares

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

  • 9 regular sized graham crackers, ground fine (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
  • 5–6 tbsp salted butter, melted

Lemon Square Filling

  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

For Dusting

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking both the crust and the lemon filling.
  2. Prepare Graham Cracker Crust: Pulse the graham crackers in a blender or food processor until they become finely ground crumbs. In a mixing bowl, combine these crumbs with the brown sugar and melted salted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened; if the mixture appears too dry, add up to 1 tablespoon more melted butter.
  3. Form and Bake Crust: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan, using the bottom of a drinking glass to compact and level the crust. Bake on the lower rack of the oven for 12 minutes until the crust is set and golden. After baking, gently press the crust again with the glass to ensure it remains firm and even.
  4. Mix Lemon Filling: Immediately after removing the crust from the oven, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, granulated sugar, salt, and all-purpose flour. Stir to mix well, then add the beaten eggs and whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
  5. Bake Lemon Squares: Slowly and carefully pour the lemon filling over the warm crust to avoid disturbing it. Return the pan to the lower rack of the oven and bake for 17-22 minutes until the filling is mostly set but still has a slight jiggle in the center—this indicates the perfect texture.
  6. Chill and Serve: Remove the lemon squares from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to fully set. Once chilled, dust the top with powdered sugar, slice into 9 squares, and serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright lemon flavor.
  • Pressing the crust firmly ensures a sturdy base that holds the lemon filling well.
  • If you like stronger lemon taste, use Meyer lemons or add a teaspoon of lemon extract.
  • Chilling the bars after baking is essential for clean slicing and optimal texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://cozykitchenbymaya.com/lemon-squares-with-graham-cracker-crust-recipe/