Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dessert game! These Lemon Earl Grey Squares are not just another ordinary treat – they're a sophisticated fusion of bright citrus and elegant tea flavors that will transport you to a world of gourmet delights. Imagine a perfectly balanced square that combines the zesty punch of lemon with the sophisticated, aromatic notes of Earl Grey tea, all wrapped up in a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have your guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 squares
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- Grind the Earl Grey tea leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. This will help distribute the tea flavor evenly throughout the batter.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, ground Earl Grey tea leaves, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the fresh lemon juice. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the squares out and transfer to a wire rack.
- Once completely cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve.
- Cut into 16 equal squares and serve. These squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Tea Grinding Technique: For the most intense flavor, use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to create a fine tea powder. This ensures the Earl Grey flavor is evenly distributed throughout the squares.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense squares.
- Parchment Paper Trick: The overhanging parchment paper makes removing the squares from the pan a breeze and ensures perfect cutting.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the squares to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent the sugar from melting and ensure a beautiful, pristine finish.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Serving Suggestion: These squares pair wonderfully with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a light, citrusy cocktail for an extra special treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg
