{"id":50704,"date":"2025-10-03T13:59:45","date_gmt":"2025-10-03T13:59:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/?p=50704"},"modified":"2025-10-03T14:01:23","modified_gmt":"2025-10-03T14:01:23","slug":"creamy-lemon-squares-the-lemon-bars-recipe-youll-make-again","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/creamy-lemon-squares-the-lemon-bars-recipe-youll-make-again\/","title":{"rendered":"Creamy Lemon Squares \u2014 The Lemon Bars Recipe You\u2019ll Make Again"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lemon Bars Recipe: bright, creamy Lemon Squares that beat the heat and win every bake sale.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for a sunny dessert that\u2019s equal parts tart and silky? These <strong>Lemon Squares<\/strong> \u2014 basically lemonade in slice form \u2014 are exactly that: a buttery graham crust topped with a dreamy, custardy lemon layer. They\u2019re the kind of <strong>Lemon Dessert Recipes<\/strong> you\u2019ll pinch yourself for making: few ingredients, zero drama, and major deliciousness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction \u2014 why you\u2019ll want to bake these today<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Summer, spring, or a rainy Tuesday \u2014 when lemon cravings hit, these bars answer the call. Think of a <strong>Sweet Bar<\/strong> that\u2019s bright, not cloying; smooth, not grainy; and endlessly snackable. They\u2019re portable, easy to scale, and beloved at potlucks. What\u2019s not to love?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What makes this recipe so irresistible<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The filling tastes like concentrated lemonade <a href=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/very-moist-lemon-custard-cake-best-lemon-cake-recipe-moist\/\"  data-wpil-monitor-id=\"50\">\u2014 <strong>Lemon Recipes<\/strong><\/a> at their best.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The base gives a tender, slightly crunchy contrast to the silky top.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They\u2019re easy to make in one pan and slice into neat <strong>Slices Recipes<\/strong> for serving.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bold tip:<\/strong> refrigerate before cutting \u2014 chilled bars slice clean and look bakery-level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ingredients \u2014 short description of what each does<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Graham cracker crumbs:<\/strong> the salty-sweet foundation for the crust.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Butter:<\/strong> binds crumbs and gives golden flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sugar:<\/strong> sweetens both crust and filling without masking lemon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Condensed milk:<\/strong> builds the creamy, velvety texture in the filling (this is your shortcut to silky bars).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Egg yolks:<\/strong> enrich and set the custardy lemon layer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fresh lemon juice (and zest, optional):<\/strong> the star \u2014 fresh acid beats bottled juice every time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Use quality lemons \u2014 they make the flavor pop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again1.webp\" alt=\"Close-up of creamy Lemon Squares with golden graham cracker crust and smooth lemon filling, dusted lightly for a bright, tangy Sweet Bar dessert.\" class=\"wp-image-50707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again1.webp 1024w, https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again1-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again1-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again1-768x768.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A simple how-to (no-nonsense)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Preheat<\/strong> the oven to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Crust:<\/strong> pulse graham crackers in a food processor to fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter and a bit of sugar, press into the pan forming an even layer up the sides about \u00bd\u20131 inch. Bake 10\u201312 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Filling:<\/strong> whisk sweetened condensed milk with egg yolks until smooth, then stir in lemon juice (and zest if using). Pour over cooled crust.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bake<\/strong> 15\u201320 minutes until set at the edges and slightly jiggly in the middle (it will finish setting as it cools).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chill:<\/strong> cool to room temp, then refrigerate at least 30\u201360 minutes. Lift the slab with the parchment, trim edges, and cut into <strong>Lemon Squares<\/strong>. Dust with powdered sugar if you like.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bold tip:<\/strong> if your filling seems runny, add 1 tablespoon cornstarch whisked with a little lemon juice before baking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The story behind my lemon squares (quick, personal)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I first made these on a whim with a single lemon and a pantry raid. I expected decent, got legendary. Friends called them \u201clike sunshine\u201d and I kept a cooler bag of slices for all future gatherings. Now I stash a pan in the freezer for emergency dessert needs (FYI: this trick saves lives).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pro tips for the best outcome<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Room temperature eggs<\/strong> blend more smoothly \u2014 no streaks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Press the crust firmly<\/strong> so it doesn\u2019t crumble when you slice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use fresh lemon juice<\/strong> and, if possible, zest for an extra lift.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chill fully<\/strong> before cutting for clean <strong>Slices Recipes<\/strong>; this prevents smearing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wipe your knife between cuts<\/strong> \u2014 heat the blade briefly under hot water, dry, and slice again for perfectly neat squares.<br><strong>Bold tip:<\/strong> toast the crust lightly a minute longer for extra crunch, but avoid dark browning.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Variations to try (fun spins)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lemon-Blueberry Bars:<\/strong> scatter fresh blueberries on the crust before pouring the filling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lime Squares:<\/strong> swap limes for lemons for a sharper citrus twist.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coconut Lemon Bars:<\/strong> sprinkle shredded coconut over the crust before baking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cookie Bar hybrid:<\/strong> swap graham for crushed shortbread or digestive biscuits for a buttery <strong>Cookie Bar Recipes<\/strong> vibe.<br>These riffs turn a classic into an <strong>Interesting Food Recipes<\/strong> experiment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best ways to serve<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Chill, slice, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with a lemon wedge on the side.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For brunch or a party, plate a few squares next to fresh berries and a sprig of mint.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Want to get fancy? Top each square with a tiny dollop of whipped cream and a micro-zest.<br>These bars shine as a picnic <strong>Dessert Bar Recipe<\/strong> or after-dinner treat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick tips for storage &amp; leftovers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Store <strong>Lemon Squares<\/strong> in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freeze whole slab (un-cut) or individual squares separated by parchment for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.<br><strong>Bold tip:<\/strong> freeze uncut for easier slicing once thawed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs \u2014 quick answers to the most common problems<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1759492825355\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Why are my lemon squares runny?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Most likely under-baked or too much lemon juice. Bake until the surface sets and the center only wobbles slightly. You can also stir in 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed into a bit of juice) to thicken.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1759492842707\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can I skip condensed milk?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>You can make a traditional curd-style filling with whole eggs and sugar, but the texture will change \u2014 the bars will be less creamy and more custard-like. Condensed milk gives that ultra-smooth finish.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1759492851057\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Do I need to refrigerate?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to, but <strong>refrigerating before slicing<\/strong> yields cleaner cuts and a firmer texture. I recommend chilling for at least 30 minutes.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1759492862713\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How can I make these less sweet?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Reduce sugar slightly in the crust, and use more zest and slightly less juice in the filling \u2014 the bright peel oil helps cut perceived sweetness.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why these Lemon Squares make perfect party food<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>They scale easily, travel well, and people love finger-friendly bars. Want a crowd-pleaser that feels elegant but checks out as easy? This <strong>Lemon Bars Recipe<\/strong> hits the mark \u2014 portable like a <strong>Dessert Bar Recipe<\/strong>, fresh like a <strong>Lemon Dessert Recipes<\/strong> pick, and universally adored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Troubleshooting checklist (fast)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If filling cracks: cool gradually \u2014 don\u2019t shock with cold air.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If crust separates from filling: press crust up the sides more next time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If lemon flavor is weak: add a teaspoon more fresh juice and a tablespoon of zest.<br><strong>Bold tip:<\/strong> test doneness by gently shaking the pan \u2014 only a slight jiggle in the center means perfect set.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final thoughts \u2014 little squares, big joy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These <strong>Lemon Squares<\/strong> are a triumph of simplicity. They show how few ingredients can deliver big citrus flavor and impressive texture. Whether you label them a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/best-ever-lemon-bars-recipe\/\"  data-wpil-monitor-id=\"49\">Lemon Bars Recipe<\/a><\/strong>, a <strong>Sweet Bar<\/strong> moment, or part of your <strong>Cookie Bar Recipes<\/strong> rotation, they deserve a spot in your regular baking lineup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So \u2014 what are you waiting for? Grab those lemons, press the crust, and make a batch. Slice them small for nibble trays or big for dessert plates; either way, you\u2019ll get smiles. Want a printable version or a scaled recipe for a crowd? I can draft it up pin-ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again2.webp\" alt=\"Close-up of creamy Lemon Squares with golden graham cracker crust and smooth lemon filling, dusted lightly for a bright, tangy Sweet Bar dessert.\" class=\"wp-image-50708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again2.webp 1024w, https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again2-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again2-150x150.webp 150w, 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24\"><title>print<\/title> <desc>print icon<\/desc><path d=\"M19 8H5c-1.66 0-3 1.34-3 3v6h4v4h12v-4h4v-6c0-1.66-1.34-3-3-3zm-3 11H8v-5h8v5zm3-7c-.55 0-1-.45-1-1s.45-1 1-1 1 .45 1 1-.45 1-1 1zm-1-9H6v4h12V3z\" fill=\"currentColor\" \/><\/symbol><symbol id=\"tasty-recipes-icon-squares\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><title>squares<\/title> <desc>squares icon<\/desc><path d=\"M22 9V7h-2V5c0-1.1-.9-2-2-2H4c-1.1 0-2 .9-2 2v14c0 1.1.9 2 2 2h14c1.1 0 2-.9 2-2v-2h2v-2h-2v-2h2v-2h-2V9h2zm-4 10H4V5h14v14zM6 13h5v4H6zm6-6h4v3h-4zM6 7h5v5H6zm6 4h4v6h-4z\" fill=\"currentColor\" \/><\/symbol><symbol id=\"tasty-recipes-icon-heart-regular\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><title>heart<\/title> <desc>heart icon<\/desc><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M458.4 64.3C400.6 15.7 311.3 23 256 79.3 200.7 23 111.4 15.6 53.6 64.3-21.6 127.6-10.6 230.8 43 285.5l175.4 178.7c10 10.2 23.4 15.9 37.6 15.9 14.3 0 27.6-5.6 37.6-15.8L469 285.6c53.5-54.7 64.7-157.9-10.6-221.3zm-23.6 187.5L259.4 430.5c-2.4 2.4-4.4 2.4-6.8 0L77.2 251.8c-36.5-37.2-43.9-107.6 7.3-150.7 38.9-32.7 98.9-27.8 136.5 10.5l35 35.7 35-35.7c37.8-38.5 97.8-43.2 136.5-10.6 51.1 43.1 43.5 113.9 7.3 150.8z\"><\/path><\/symbol><symbol id=\"tasty-recipes-icon-heart-solid\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><title>heart solid<\/title> <desc>heart solid icon<\/desc><path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M462.3 62.6C407.5 15.9 326 24.3 275.7 76.2L256 96.5l-19.7-20.3C186.1 24.3 104.5 15.9 49.7 62.6c-62.8 53.6-66.1 149.8-9.9 207.9l193.5 199.8c12.5 12.9 32.8 12.9 45.3 0l193.5-199.8c56.3-58.1 53-154.3-9.8-207.9z\"><\/path><\/symbol><\/defs><\/svg>\n<header class=\"tasty-recipes-entry-header\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-image\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" src=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Creamy-Lemon-Squares-\u2014-The-Lemon-Bars-Recipe-Youll-Make-Again-150x150.webp\" class=\"attachment-thumbnail size-thumbnail\" alt=\"Close-up of creamy Lemon Squares with golden graham cracker crust and smooth lemon filling, dusted lightly for a bright, tangy Sweet Bar dessert.\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-header-content clearfix\">\n\t\t<h2 class=\"tasty-recipes-title\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"h2-color.color h2-transform.text-transform\">Creamy Lemon Squares \u2014 The Lemon Bars Recipe You\u2019ll Make Again<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-rating\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-outer\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-stars\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\"position: absolute;width: 0;height: 0;overflow: hidden\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<defs>\n<symbol viewbox=\"9 9 46 42\" id=\"wpt-star-full\">\n<path d=\"m46.3 52-14.4-9.5-14.4 9.4L22 35.3 8.7 24.5l17.1-.9 6.2-16 6 16 17.2 1-13.4 10.7z\" \/>\n<\/symbol>\n<\/defs>\n<\/svg>\n<span class=\"tasty-recipes-ratings-buttons tasty-recipes-no-ratings-buttons\"\tdata-tr-default-rating=\"0\"\t>\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating\" >\t\t<i class=\"checked\" data-rating=\"5\">\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-solid\" data-tr-clip=\"0\">\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"tasty-recipes-svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"17\"><use href=\"#wpt-star-full\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-screen-reader\">\t\t\t\t5 Stars\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t<\/i>\t<\/span>\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating\" >\t\t<i class=\"checked\" data-rating=\"4\">\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-solid\" data-tr-clip=\"0\">\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"tasty-recipes-svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"17\"><use href=\"#wpt-star-full\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-screen-reader\">\t\t\t\t4 Stars\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t<\/i>\t<\/span>\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating\" >\t\t<i class=\"checked\" data-rating=\"3\">\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-solid\" data-tr-clip=\"0\">\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"tasty-recipes-svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"17\"><use href=\"#wpt-star-full\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-screen-reader\">\t\t\t\t3 Stars\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t<\/i>\t<\/span>\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating\" >\t\t<i class=\"checked\" data-rating=\"2\">\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-solid\" data-tr-clip=\"0\">\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"tasty-recipes-svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"17\"><use href=\"#wpt-star-full\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-screen-reader\">\t\t\t\t2 Stars\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t<\/i>\t<\/span>\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating\" >\t\t<i class=\"checked\" data-rating=\"1\">\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-solid\" data-tr-clip=\"0\">\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"tasty-recipes-svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"17\"><use href=\"#wpt-star-full\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-screen-reader\">\t\t\t\t1 Star\t\t\t<\/span>\t\t<\/i>\t<\/span><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-rating-label\"><span data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-label-color.color\" class=\"rating-label\">No reviews<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-details\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"author\"><span class=\"tasty-recipes-label\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-label-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAuthor:<\/span> <span data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-value-color.color\" class=\"tasty-recipes-author-name\">Jennifer<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"prep-time\"><span class=\"tasty-recipes-label\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-label-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" class=\"detail-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"icon-color.color\"><use href=\"#tasty-recipes-icon-clock\"><\/use><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPrep Time:<\/span> <span data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-value-color.color\" class=\"tasty-recipes-prep-time\">15 minutes<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"cook-time\"><span class=\"tasty-recipes-label\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-label-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" class=\"detail-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"icon-color.color\"><use href=\"#tasty-recipes-icon-clock\"><\/use><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCook Time:<\/span> <span data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-value-color.color\" class=\"tasty-recipes-cook-time\">30 minutes<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"total-time\"><span class=\"tasty-recipes-label\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-label-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" class=\"detail-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"icon-color.color\"><use href=\"#tasty-recipes-icon-clock\"><\/use><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTotal Time:<\/span> <span data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-value-color.color\" class=\"tasty-recipes-total-time\">45 minutes<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"category\"><span class=\"tasty-recipes-label\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-label-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" class=\"detail-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"icon-color.color\"><use href=\"#tasty-recipes-icon-folder\"><\/use><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCategory:<\/span> <span data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"detail-value-color.color\" class=\"tasty-recipes-category\">Dessert<\/span><\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-buttons\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-button-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\n<a class=\"button tasty-recipes-print-button tasty-recipes-no-print\" href=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/creamy-lemon-squares-the-lemon-bars-recipe-youll-make-again\/print\/50705\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"\">\n\t\t\t<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" class=\"svg-print\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><use href=\"#tasty-recipes-icon-print\"><\/use><\/svg>\n\t\tPrint Recipe<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t\n<\/header>\n\n<div class=\"tasty-recipes-entry-content\">\n\t<hr data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"secondary-color.border-color secondary-color.background-color\">\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-description\">\n\t\t\t<h3 data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"h3-color.color h3-transform.text-transform\">Description<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-description-body\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"body-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t<p>Bright, tangy, and smooth \u2014 these little squares taste like sunshine in dessert form. Imagine lemonade transformed into a melt-in-your-mouth treat with a buttery graham cracker base. Yep, that\u2019s exactly what these bars deliver.<\/p>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t\t\t<hr data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"secondary-color.border-color secondary-color.background-color\">\n\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-ingredients\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-ingredients-header\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-ingredients-clipboard-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"h3-color.color h3-transform.text-transform\">Ingredients<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-units-scale-container\"><span class=\"tasty-recipes-scale-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"tasty-recipes-scale-label\">Scale<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button class=\"tasty-recipes-scale-button tasty-recipes-scale-button-active\" data-amount=\"1\" type=\"button\">1x<\/button><button class=\"tasty-recipes-scale-button\" data-amount=\"2\" type=\"button\">2x<\/button><button class=\"tasty-recipes-scale-button\" data-amount=\"3\" type=\"button\">3x<\/button>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span><\/div>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-ingredients-body\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"body-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t<p><strong>For the crust:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-tr-ingredient-checkbox=\"\"><span class=\"tr-ingredient-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aaa4\" id=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aaa4\" aria-label=\"4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted\"><label for=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aaa4\"><\/label><\/span><span data-amount=\"4\" data-unit=\"tablespoon\">4 tablespoons<\/span> unsalted butter, melted<\/li>\n<li data-tr-ingredient-checkbox=\"\"><span class=\"tr-ingredient-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aab6\" id=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aab6\" aria-label=\"24 graham cracker squares\"><label for=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aab6\"><\/label><\/span><span data-amount=\"24\">24<\/span> graham cracker squares<\/li>\n<li data-tr-ingredient-checkbox=\"\"><span class=\"tr-ingredient-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aac4\" id=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aac4\" aria-label=\"\u00bc cup granulated sugar\"><label for=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aac4\"><\/label><\/span><span data-amount=\"0.25\" data-unit=\"cup\">\u00bc cup<\/span> granulated sugar<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>For the lemon layer:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-tr-ingredient-checkbox=\"\"><span class=\"tr-ingredient-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aad0\" id=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aad0\" aria-label=\"2 egg yolks\"><label for=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aad0\"><\/label><\/span><span data-amount=\"2\">2<\/span> egg yolks<\/li>\n<li data-tr-ingredient-checkbox=\"\"><span class=\"tr-ingredient-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aadd\" id=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aadd\" aria-label=\"1 (12-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk\"><label for=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aadd\"><\/label><\/span><span data-amount=\"1\">1<\/span> (12-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk<\/li>\n<li data-tr-ingredient-checkbox=\"\"><span class=\"tr-ingredient-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" name=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aaea\" id=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aaea\" aria-label=\"\u00bd cup freshly squeezed lemon juice\"><label for=\"ingredient_checkbox_69f0a4334aaea\"><\/label><\/span><span data-amount=\"0.5\" data-unit=\"cup\">\u00bd cup<\/span> freshly squeezed lemon juice<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!--INSIDE_INGREDIENTS--><\/p>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t\t\t<hr data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"secondary-color.border-color secondary-color.background-color\">\n\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-instructions\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-instructions-header\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"h3-color.color h3-transform.text-transform\">Instructions<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-instructions-body\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"body-color.color\">\n\t\t\t\t<p id=\"instruction-step-1\" data-start=\"716\" data-end=\"925\"><strong data-start=\"716\" data-end=\"736\">1. Prep the pan.<\/strong><br data-start=\"736\" data-end=\"739\" \/>Heat the oven to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C). Grease an 8-inch square pan with a bit of butter, then line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides to help lift out the bars later.<\/p>\n<p id=\"instruction-step-2\" data-start=\"927\" data-end=\"1266\"><strong data-start=\"927\" data-end=\"949\">2. Make the crust.<\/strong><br data-start=\"949\" data-end=\"952\" \/>Break up the graham crackers and blitz them in a food processor until they\u2019re fine crumbs. Add the sugar and melted butter, then pulse again until everything sticks together like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, pushing it up the sides about an inch to form an even crust.<\/p>\n<p id=\"instruction-step-3\" data-start=\"1268\" data-end=\"1412\"><strong data-start=\"1268\" data-end=\"1289\">3. Bake the base.<\/strong><br data-start=\"1289\" data-end=\"1292\" \/>Place the crust in the oven for 10\u201312 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.<\/p>\n<p id=\"instruction-step-4\" data-start=\"1414\" data-end=\"1646\"><strong data-start=\"1414\" data-end=\"1441\">4. Whip up the filling.<\/strong><br data-start=\"1441\" data-end=\"1444\" \/>In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until silky smooth (a hand whisk or electric mixer both work). Add the lemon juice and mix until the filling is completely blended.<\/p>\n<p id=\"instruction-step-5\" data-start=\"1648\" data-end=\"1877\"><strong data-start=\"1648\" data-end=\"1679\">5. Assemble and bake again.<\/strong><br data-start=\"1679\" data-end=\"1682\" \/>Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15\u201320 minutes, until the filling is set and the crust edges are a light brown.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p id=\"instruction-step-6\" data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"2231\"><strong data-start=\"1879\" data-end=\"1899\">6. Cool and cut.<\/strong><br data-start=\"1899\" data-end=\"1902\" \/>Let the pan cool on a wire rack until room temperature. For extra firmness, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or longer. Once set, lift the slab out of the pan with the parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into 16 smaller squares for bite-size treats, or 9 larger squares if you want heartier portions.<\/p>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t<hr data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"secondary-color.border-color secondary-color.background-color\">\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t<footer class=\"tasty-recipes-entry-footer\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-footer-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" class=\"svg-instagram\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"footer-icon-color.color\"><use href=\"#tasty-recipes-icon-instagram\"><\/use><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"tasty-recipes-footer-copy\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"footer-heading-color.color h3-transform.text-transform footer-heading.innerText\">Did you make this recipe?<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div data-tasty-recipes-customization=\"footer-description-color.color footer-description.innerHTML\"><p>Share a photo and tag us \u2014 we can&#8217;t wait to see what you&#8217;ve made!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/footer>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Lemon Bars Recipe: bright, creamy Lemon Squares that beat the heat and win every bake sale. Looking for a sunny dessert that\u2019s equal parts tart and silky? These Lemon Squares \u2014 basically lemonade in slice form \u2014 are exactly that: a buttery graham crust topped with a dreamy, custardy lemon layer. They\u2019re the kind of &#8230; <a title=\"Creamy Lemon Squares \u2014 The Lemon Bars Recipe You\u2019ll Make Again\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/creamy-lemon-squares-the-lemon-bars-recipe-youll-make-again\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Creamy Lemon Squares \u2014 The Lemon Bars Recipe You\u2019ll Make Again\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":50706,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[89],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-50704","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dessert","infinite-scroll-item","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50704","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=50704"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50704\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/50706"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=50704"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=50704"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/9amchef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=50704"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}