Lemon Squares

For the crispest crust and firmest filling, prepare the crust and filling independently, then combine and bake to marry their flavors and set the filling.

Test Kitchen Discoveries

• Blend both lemon zest and lemon juice in the filling for the brightest flavor. Do take the extra step and strain out the zest, which would mar the otherwise smooth texture.
• Enrich the curd topping with heavy cream, which tempers the acidity of the lemon and lends a lush texture.
• Make sure to line the baking pan with a foil “sling”; otherwise it will be quite tricky to remove the bars without damage.