Sunny Lemon Squares

There’s something magical about the way a simple dessert can brighten your day, and that’s exactly what Sunny Lemon Squares do for me. I remember the first time I tried a lemon square; it was a sun-drenched afternoon, and the balance of sweet and tangy flavors danced on my palate. That moment sparked a love for these bright, zesty treats, and now, I can’t help but recreate them for every gathering or just to enjoy with my afternoon tea. The way the bright yellow filling gleams against the golden crust reminds me of sunshine, making each bite feel like a warm embrace.

Preparing Sunny Lemon Squares always brings back fond memories of baking with my family during spring. The air filled with the scent of fresh lemons, and laughter echoed through the kitchen as we whipped up this delightful treat. These squares are perfect for sharing, whether it’s at a picnic, a celebration, or simply a cozy dessert at home. As I bake them, I can’t help but share the joy with friends, often insisting they try just one more piece because they’re simply irresistible. The creamy lemon filling, paired with the buttery crust, offers a delightful texture that is hard to resist.

What I love most about Sunny Lemon Squares is the way they transport you to a brighter place with just one bite. The tartness of the lemon beautifully balances the richness of the eggs and sugar, creating a refreshing finish that lingers on the tongue. Whenever I serve them, I see smiles all around, and there’s always someone asking for the recipe. It’s truly a testament to how a simple dessert can bring people together and create lasting memories.

Ingredients for Sunny Lemon Squares

When it comes to making Sunny Lemon Squares, the ingredients play a crucial role in delivering that signature zesty flavor. Each ingredient contributes to the overall balance of sweetness and tartness. The key players include fresh lemons, eggs, and a buttery crust that perfectly complements the bright lemon filling. Together, these ingredients create a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.

• Coconut oil: 1 cup – This ingredient adds richness and moisture to the crust, making it tender and delicious.
• Granulated sugar: 2 and 1/2 cups – The sweetness balances the tangy lemon, creating a delightful contrast.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances sweetness.
• All-purpose flour: 2 and 1/3 cups – The backbone of the crust, providing structure and texture.
• Lemon zest: 2 teaspoons – Intensifies the lemon flavor and adds a fragrant aroma.
• Large eggs: 6 – Essential for the creamy filling, giving it structure and richness.
• Fresh squeezed lemon juice: 1 cup – The star of the show, providing the characteristic tangy flavor.
• Confectioners’ sugar: 1/2 cup – Used for dusting, adds a touch of sweetness and decoration.

How to Prepare Sunny Lemon Squares

Preparing Sunny Lemon Squares is a delightfully simple process that yields impressive results. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a bright and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for sharing. This treat is sure to become a family favorite!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the ends to hang over the edges. This will help with easy removal later. Generously grease the parchment paper and any exposed areas of the pan. This step is crucial to ensure your delicious squares come out without sticking!

2. In a medium bowl, combine the coconut oil, 1 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these ingredients well until they are fully combined. The coconut oil should be melted but not hot, allowing for a smooth mixture.

3. Next, add in the 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir the ingredients until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix. The goal is to have a crumbly dough that can be pressed evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

4. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for consistent baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 14 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure they are thoroughly combined.

6. Now, it’s time to add the richness! Crack the 6 large eggs into the bowl along with the vanilla extract and 1 cup of fresh squeezed lemon juice. Whisk the mixture until it’s well combined, and you can see the beautiful yellow color of the filling.

7. Pour this luscious lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly. This is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well-distributed for a delightful finish!

8. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; if the center moves slightly but feels firm, it’s ready!

9. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature. After cooling, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 3 days. Chilling enhances the flavors and gives the squares a lovely texture.

Things Worth Knowing

Recipe Tips about Sunny Lemon Squares

Baking Sunny Lemon Squares is a fun and rewarding experience, and with a few tips, you can make them even more delightful. Here are some insights that will help you perfect this recipe.

• Storage: Keep your Sunny Lemon Squares covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can last up to three days, though they’re usually gone much sooner!
• Freezing: You can freeze these squares for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Pairing: These squares pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade. They also make a fantastic dessert for picnics or outdoor events.
• Serving Size: Cut them into small, bite-sized squares for parties. They make an excellent finger food option that everyone loves!
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like limes or oranges for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.

Serve This Sunny Lemon Squares With

When it comes to serving Sunny Lemon Squares, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas on how to enjoy them:

• As a refreshing dessert: Serve chilled squares at the end of a meal for a light and zesty finish.
• With tea or coffee: Pair these squares with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• At picnics: Pack them for a picnic; their refreshing taste is perfect for outdoor gatherings.
• For celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday or a holiday gathering, these squares add a sunny touch to any dessert table.
• Seasonal pairings: Enjoy these treats in spring when lemons are at their peak, but they’re delicious any time of year!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sunny Lemon Squares offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a standout dessert option. Their refreshing lemony taste paired with a buttery crust is sure to leave a lasting impression. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share the joy of these squares with family and friends. You won’t regret it!

Sunny Lemon Squares

Craving something refreshing? Sunny Lemon Squares are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them an irresistible treat. With a buttery crust and a zesty lemon filling, they're easy to make and deliciously satisfying. Delight your taste buds with these sunny squares that are perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 9 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 245

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Coconut oil
• 2.5 cups Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 2.33 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Lemon zest
• 6 large Large eggs at room temperature
• 1 cup Fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 0.5 cup Confectioners' sugar for dusting

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the ends to hang over the edges. This will help with easy removal later. Generously grease the parchment paper and any exposed areas of the pan. This step is crucial to ensure your delicious squares come out without sticking!
2. In a medium bowl, combine the coconut oil, 1 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these ingredients well until they are fully combined. The coconut oil should be melted but not hot, allowing for a smooth mixture.
3. Next, add in the 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir the ingredients until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix. The goal is to have a crumbly dough that can be pressed evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
4. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for consistent baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 14 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure they are thoroughly combined.
6. Now, it’s time to add the richness! Crack the 6 large eggs into the bowl along with the vanilla extract and 1 cup of fresh squeezed lemon juice. Whisk the mixture until it’s well combined, and you can see the beautiful yellow color of the filling.
7. Pour this luscious lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly. This is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well-distributed for a delightful finish!
8. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; if the center moves slightly but feels firm, it’s ready!
9. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature. After cooling, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 3 days. Chilling enhances the flavors and gives the squares a lovely texture.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep your Sunny Lemon Squares covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can last up to three days, though they’re usually gone much sooner!
• Tip 2: You can freeze these squares for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Tip 3: These squares pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade. They also make a fantastic dessert for picnics or outdoor events.
• Tip 4: Cut them into small, bite-sized squares for parties. They make an excellent finger food option that everyone loves!
• Tip 5: Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like limes or oranges for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!