Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the finished squares.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the Crust: Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
Making the Lemon Filling:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/4 cup flour to eliminate any lumps.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour Over the Crust: Gently pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust. The filling should be smooth and evenly distributed.
Baking and Serving:
- Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the lemon squares to cool to room temperature. Then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This makes the squares easier to cut and intensifies the flavors.
- Cut and Dust: Lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Lemon Squares:
- Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled juice can’t match the brightness and tang of freshly squeezed lemons.
- Even Baking: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through baking both the crust and the filling to ensure even cooking.
- Slicing: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices.
Creamy Lemon Squares are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Each bite offers a burst of lemony freshness, perfectly complemented by the richness of the creamy filling and the crisp, buttery base. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or as a comforting treat, these lemon squares are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, inviting everyone to indulge in their irresistible charm.