Yield: 24 bars | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Lemon squares are a favorite bakery treat of mine, and now I can bake this new-and-improved version in my own kitchen. It’s much easier than traditional lemon squares but with the same iconic citrusy sweetness.
INGREDIENTS
1 (16-ounce) lemon cake mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 (21-ounce) can lemon pie filling
Sprinkles for garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the cake mix and butter and beat on medium speed until well combined and crumbly. Set aside ½ cup of the mixture, and press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the lemon pie filling over the top, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the reserved dry mixture over the pie filling.
3. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the top begins to lightly brown.
4. Remove from oven and top with sprinkles (optional).
5. Cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares or bars to serve. Store any leftover bars, tightly covered, in the refrigerator.