ITALIAN LEMON & RICOTTA SQUARES

These delightful Lemon and Ricotta Squares are a perfect blend of tangy lemon and creamy ricotta, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these squares are sure to impress with their bright flavor and luscious texture.

Why you will love this recipe

• Bright and flavorful: The lemon aroma comes through, creating a refreshing dessert.
• Creamy and decadent: Ricotta adds a rich, smooth texture.
• Simple and elegant: Perfect for informal gatherings or elegant occasions.
• Prepare in advance: Due to the shelf life, it is easy to prepare in advance.

Servings: 12 squares

Cooking Time:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 40–50 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Preparing the crust:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Add the softened butter with a fork or pastry cutter until you have a coarse crumb mixture.
• Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
• Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Prepare the filling:

• In another bowl, beat together the eggs, ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice and zest until smooth and well combined.
• Pour the ricotta filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.

Bake the squares:

• Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the filling has set and the edges are lightly browned.

Cool and chill:

• Allow the squares to cool completely in the baking dish at room temperature.
• Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing.

Serving:

• Dust the top of the squares with powdered sugar for a nice finish.
• Cut into slices and serve chilled.

Tips for success

• Lemon zest: Use fresh lemons for best zest and juice flavor. Avoid the white core, which can taste bitter.
• Firm crust: Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan to make it firm during baking.
• Chilling: Do not skip the chilling step-it helps the squares set and makes them easier to cut.
• Storage: Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Facts (Per Square)