© Original Recipe By Hollywood Recipes ©
🥧✨ Snoopy Lucy’s Lemon Squares: The Perfect Citrus Delight to Brighten Your Day 🌟🍋
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a tangy, sweet, and irresistibly buttery dessert, then Snoopy Lucy’s Lemon Squares are exactly what you need. This classic lemon dessert combines a crisp, buttery crust with a vibrant, luscious lemon filling that **wows your taste buds**. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch or just treating yourself to a sweet escape, these lemon bars are guaranteed to become a favorite. The zesty lemon flavor paired with a tender shortbread crust makes each bite refreshing and satisfying. Let’s dive into creating this citrus treat that captures the playful spirit of Snoopy and the bright flavor of lemons!
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for last-minute cravings.
- Flavorful & Tangy: The fresh lemon juice and zest brighten every bite.
- Versatile: Ideal for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in.
- Beautiful Presentation: Bright yellow squares look as cheerful as they taste.
- One-bowl simplicity: Minimal dirty dishes — just mix, bake, and enjoy!
3. Ingredient Notes
Creating the perfect lemon squares calls for high-quality ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest are essential—opt for organic lemons if possible for the best flavor. Using real butter in the crust adds richness, while a touch of powdered sugar enhances the sweetness without overpowering the citrus brightness. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla to the filling. To elevate your dessert, choose fresh, vibrant lemons like Meyer lemons, which offer a sweeter, more aromatic citrus profile.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To make these Lemon Squares flawlessly, you’ll need some essential baking tools. A 9×13 inch baking pan provides the perfect size for evenly baked squares. A hand or box grater makes zesting lemons quick and easy, ensuring you get the maximum flavor. Additionally, a juicer helps extract the freshest lemon juice and minimizes pulp, resulting in a smooth, bright filling. Investing in quality baking tools will make your lemon squares look professionally perfect every time!
5. How to Make Snoopy Lucy’s Lemon Squares
Preparation of the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until it turns a light golden hue and emits a fragrant, buttery aroma. It should be crisp to the touch but not overdone.
The Lemon Filling
While the crust cools slightly, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, granulated sugar, and a tablespoon of all-purpose flour or cornstarch to thicken. Pour this vibrant, yellow filling over the warm crust. You’ll notice the mixture turns wonderfully smooth and glossy, hinting at the lusciousness to come. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the filling is just set and slightly puffed at the edges.
Cooling and Serving
Let the lemon squares cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares. The result: beautifully bright, citrus-filled bars with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth and a zingy, refreshing lemon filling that celebrates every citrus note!
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for optimal flavor; bottled lemon juice won’t deliver the same zestiness.
- Don’t overbake; the filling should be just set in the center—if it jiggles slightly, it’s perfect.
- Let the lemon bars cool completely before slicing—this helps prevent sticking and keeps edges sharp.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest or add a splash of lemon extract.
- Store leftover lemon squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you want to put your spin on these lemon squares, consider these options:
- Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and flaxseed eggs as a substitute for eggs.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with almond or rice flour for a nutty, gluten-free crust.
- Extra Zest: For an intensely citrusy flavor, increase the lemon zest or add a splash of orange juice.
- Additional Topping: Top with toasted coconut or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence.
8. Storage & Reheating
These lemon squares keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, lightly warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or serve chilled—they taste equally delightful. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and an airtight container for up to a month. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
9. FAQ
Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake the lemon bars in advance. Once cooled, store them covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. They taste even better after they’ve had a chance to meld flavors.
What is the best lemon for this recipe?
Fresh Meyer lemons are perfect for their sweetness and aromatic zest, but Lisbon or Eureka lemons work beautifully too. Use lemons that are firm, heavy for their size, and fragrant for the best results.
Can I freeze lemon squares?
Yes, you can freeze lemon squares. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
10. Conclusion
With their bright citrus flavor and buttery shortbread crust, Snoopy Lucy’s Lemon Squares are a delightful treat for lemon lovers. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just indulging yourself, this recipe offers a perfect balance of tang and sweetness. Get ready to impress with this cheerful, citrusy dessert that truly captures the essence of sunshine in every bite. Happy baking!
Print
Snoopy Lucy’s Lemon Squares
A simple yet delightful lemon squares recipe featuring a buttery crust topped with a vibrant lemon filling, dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix flour and powdered sugar; cut in butter until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder. Pour over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set. Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer sweeter bars. For a tangier taste, add more lemon zest. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 Kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
