Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares
If you’re in search of a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart, look no further than these Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares. With a buttery crumb base and a luscious lemon filling, these squares are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy night in, these squares will brighten your day with their vibrant flavor. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares. First, the combination of the crumbly oat base and the creamy lemon filling creates a delightful texture that is hard to resist. Secondly, the zesty lemon flavor is refreshing and light, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Lastly, this recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while yielding impressive results. Once you try these squares, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Shopping List
Before you start whipping up these Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares, make sure you have the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, slightly softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Equipment at a Glance
You’ll need a few essential tools to make your Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- 9×9 inch baking pan – for baking the squares.
- Whisk – for mixing the filling smoothly.
- Spatula – for spreading the lemon filling evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
Mastering Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares: How-To
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9 inch baking pan lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the slightly softened butter and brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
To the butter and sugar mixture, add the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. The mixture will be crumbly, which is perfect for the base of your squares.
Step 4: Press the Mixture into the Pan
Take about two-thirds of the crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This will form the base of your Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling
In another mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk together until smooth and fully incorporated. The filling should be creamy and zesty.
Step 6: Assemble the Squares
Pour the lemon filling over the pressed crumb base in the baking pan. Spread it out evenly using a spatula. Crumble the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the lemon filling.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. The edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
In-Season Swaps
To elevate your Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares or to adapt them to whatever is fresh at the moment, consider these swaps:
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest if you have it on hand for a more vibrant flavor.
- Swap out regular oats for gluten-free oats if you prefer a gluten-free version.
- Try adding fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries on top of the lemon filling for a fruity twist.
- Experiment with other citrus juices, like lime, for a different flavor profile.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
While making your Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:
- Filling not setting: If your filling is still runny after baking, it may need more time in the oven. Keep it in for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Overbaking: Watch closely during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning the crumb topping.
- Crumb base too dry: If the crumb mixture seems too dry, you can add a little more melted butter to help it hold together.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares fresh and delicious, follow these guidelines:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you want to freeze them, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy them cold, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative of your choice. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
What can I do if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
If sweetened condensed milk isn’t on hand, you can make a homemade version by simmering 1 cup of milk with 1/3 cup of sugar until it thickens. Allow it to cool before using.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to cut the squares?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This will give you neat squares without any crumbling.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares, it’s time to serve them up! These delightful squares make the perfect ending to any meal or a sweet snack throughout the day. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee, or enjoy them on their own as a refreshing treat. The bright lemon flavor and the crumbly texture are sure to impress everyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the sunshine in every square!
Every bite of these Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares is a reminder of the joy that comes from baking, and we hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as we do. Happy baking!
Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x9 inch baking pan lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the slightly softened butter and brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- To the butter and sugar mixture, add the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. The mixture will be crumbly, which is perfect for the base of your squares.
- Take about two-thirds of the crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This will form the base of your Creamy Lemon Crumb Squares.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk together until smooth and fully incorporated. The filling should be creamy and zesty.
- Pour the lemon filling over the pressed crumb base in the baking pan. Spread it out evenly using a spatula. Crumble the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the lemon filling.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. The edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a more vibrant flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, swap regular oats for gluten-free oats.
- Add fresh berries on top for a fruity twist.
