Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium and small mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fork or food processor for crumbs
- Zester or fine grater
- Juicer or reamer
- Electric mixer (optional, for whipped cream)
Step-by-Step Instructions
I always start by prepping my pan—it makes everything so much easier later. I line my 8×8 inch pan with a sheet of parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides. This creates “handles” so I can lift the entire slab of bars out for perfectly clean slicing. Next, I make my crust. If I’m using a food processor, I pulse the graham crackers until they’re fine crumbs. If I’m doing it by hand, I put them in a sturdy zip-top bag and roll them with a rolling pin. In a bowl, I mix the crumbs, sugar, and salt. Then, I pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched.
Now, I pour the crumb mixture into my prepared pan. Using the bottom of a flat glass or a measuring cup, I press it down firmly and evenly into every corner. This firm press is the secret to a crust that holds together when you bite into it. I don’t just pat it; I really use some pressure. I then bake the crust in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. This short bake sets the crust, giving it a toasty flavor and a sturdy base for the creamy filling. I set it aside on a cooling rack while I make the filling.
For the filling, the magic happens in one bowl. I zest one of my lemons first, being careful to get only the bright yellow skin, not the bitter white pith. Then, I juice all the lemons until I have 3/4 cup of fresh juice. In a medium bowl, I whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, the fresh lemon juice, the egg yolks, and the lemon zest. The moment the lemon juice hits the condensed milk, it thickens miraculously into a luscious, pudding-like consistency. I whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and beautifully yellow. I taste it at this point—it should be boldly tart and sweet. (See the next page below to continue…)