You Won’t Miss Flour With These Gluten-Free Lemon Squares

Karen Cohen
Jun 10, 2016

This is one of those GF recipes that doesn’t make you miss good ol’ wheat flour. Almond meal takes over and is used to make the nuttiest, most buttery shortbread crust, layered with notes of vanilla and lemon zest — so even those without a gluten intolerance will appreciate them! Each square is ever so decadent and has the perfect balance of sweet, tangy citrus and rich velvety butter — ideal for warmer days filled with blooming trees, picnics and pitchers of iced tea. When the sun is out, invite some friends over and whip up a batch of these bright, summery treats.

Ingredients:

Makes 16 Squares

For the crust:

— 2 cups finely ground almond meal (aka almond flour)

— 1/3 cup granulated sugar

— 6 Tablespoons chilled butter, cubed

— zest from one lemon

— 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

— pinch of salt

For the lemon filling:

— 2 large eggs

— 1 cup granulated sugar

— juice from 2 lemons (about 1/3 cup juice)

— 2 Tablespoons GF cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and make sure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and allow the excess paper to hang over the sides. To prepare the crust, combine the almond flour, sugar, cubed butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract and salt in the bowl of your food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough.

2. Dump the shortbread dough into your parchment-lined baking dish and press the dough into the bottom (1/2-inch thickness) of the pan in one even layer.

3. Place the baking dish on the middle rack and bake for about 20 minutes or until lightly golden. While the shortbread is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a large measuring cup or a bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, lemon juice and cornstarch together until completely smooth.

4. Once the shortbread reaches a light golden color, remove it from the oven. Give the liquids a good mixing before pouring it over the hot crust. Place the baking dish back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.

5. Cool completely at room temp and then transfer to the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Run a knife around the edges of the pan and then, using the excess paper, lift and transfer to a cutting board. Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut into even squares. Have some clean paper towels nearby so you can clean the knife after each slice. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve em’ up!

To prepare the crust, combine the almond flour, sugar, cubed butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract and salt in the bowl of your food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough.

Dump the shortbread dough into your parchment-lined baking dish and press into the bottom of the pan in one even layer. Place the baking dish on the middle rack and bake for about 20 minutes or until lightly golden.

In a large measuring cup or a bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, lemon juice and cornstarch together until completely smooth.

Once the shortbread reaches a light golden color, remove it from the oven. Give the liquids a good mixing before pouring it over the hot crust. Place the baking dish back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.

Cool completely at room temp and then transfer to the fridge for at least four hours (or overnight). Run a knife around the edges of the pan and then, using the excess paper, lift and transfer to a cutting board. Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut into even squares. Have some clean paper towels nearby so you can clean the knife after each slice. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve em’ up!

These gluten-free lemon squares are perfect for warm summer days!

Looking for more GF treats to satisfy your sweet tooth? Follow us on Pinterest for more GF recipes.

15 Comfy Winter Flannel Pajamas You'll Literally Want To Live In

I've officially entered my flannel pajamas era because these 30+ year-old bones get cold. If it's below 63 degrees at home, my teeth start chattering...much to minor annoyance of my very warm-blooded fiancé. Usually I snuggle next to him like he's a bear when I'm that cold, but I can't have my way all the time. So, cute and cozy pajamas it is!

As luck would have it, I have the deets on the best winter options that may find their way to your front door. Let's go down the list, shall we?

The Best Winter Flannel Pajamas To Buy ASAP

  1. The Best Plaid Flannel Pajamas: Wondershop Plaid PJs
  2. The Best Christmas Flannel Pajamas: Koality Holiday PJs
  3. The Best Flannel Shirtdress: Flannel Nightgown
  4. The Best Kids Flannel Pajamas: Pretty Pink PJs

L.L. Bean

L.L. Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Pajamas

Plaid and the holidays are the first thing that comes to mind when I think about flannel pajamas. This top and pants set set is super soft because of its Portuguese cotton fabric. It''ll almost feel like you're enveloping yourself in a cozy blanket sans any potential mishaps when you need to use the restroom.

Hanna Andersson

Hanna Andersson Holiday Flannel Nightshirt

I love ditching pants when it gets too warm under my weighted blanket, but I think it'll be 10x easier to button up a flannel nightshirt. This lightweight beauty is still going to give you the cozy feel without restricting your legs AND you'll be able to iron it on cool (opposite side only).

Old Navy

Old Navy Flannel Pajama Shirt Dress

Again with the flannel shirt dress option? Um, yes. This option is for anyone who loves an orange and purple moment instead of green. Also, the hemline is just a tad longer than the prior one so you won't be as likely to flash anyone when you're putting the finishing touches on your Christmas tree's skirt.

Target

Wondershop Plaid Flannel Pajamas

I just had to include a pair of red and white flannel pajamas because they scream "Christmas" without any of the obvious decor designs. I love that they're a part of a matching family set so you can schedule a pajama-themed sleepover on Christmas Eve.

The best flannel pajamas for the person who's already started decorating for Christmas

P.J. Salvage

P.J. Salvage Koality Holiday Flannel PJ Set

Have you ever seen a bunch of koalas get ready for Christmas? Not to worry because this flannel pajamas set is ready to change that for you. They're literally all over the top and tie-waist bottoms in all their festive glory. There's a koala climbing a decorated Christmas tree and a mom plus her baby hanging out in a cute wreath! What's not to love?

Bed Head

Bed Head PJs Hit The Slopes Portuguese Flannel Pajamas

Keep it traditional and celebrate the evergreen vibes of the holidays. These pajamas are especially for those who usually hit the slopes but can't this year. You'll feel like you're close to the holiday activity you love the most without completely having any FOMO feelings.

Pajamagram

Pajamagram Apres Ski Flannel Pajamas

If you do plan to go skiing this year outside of The Sims 4 Seasons Expansion Pack — yes, I know you're still binging that game — here's a cute pair of flannel pajamas you have to wear at least once. Just look at the cute gondola lifts!

The best flannel pajamas if you're a cat mom who loves Christmas

PrintFresh

PrintFresh Flannel Nightgown

I have a special appreciation for the cat distribution system and the lucky moms who find their feline matches because I know how personalized it is. If you and your fur baby are locked in, you absolutely deserve to walk around your space in this jolly big cat nightgown.

The best flannel pajamas for the "I'm just a girl" crowd

P.J. Salvage

P.J. Salvage Ribbons & Bows Flannel PJ Set

If you've memorized No Doubt's "Just a Girl," and love belting it during karaoke night, you'll appreciate this cute ribbons & bows PJ set. The labels are and bows are outlined in red to offset the Pepto-Bismol pink base.

The best flannel pajamas for leopard print lovers

Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret Flannel Long Pajama Set

You don't have to wear leopard print in public if you won't want to, but don't be shy about wearing this set at home. You'll feel sultry with your glass of wine, charcuterie board, and remote in your hand.

Aerie

Aerie Off-Duty Flannel Trouser PJ Pants

You could also skip the matching moment and wear your favorite oversized t-shirt with these flannel pants. They're equally cozy and won't feel overpowering if you don't like that much pattern.

The best flannel pajamas to wear if pants make you feel itchy at night

Macy's

Adore Me Plus Size PJ Set

If you're not a fan of pants or nightgowns, these plus size pajamas will get you right! The shorts have an elastic waist so you'll have plenty of breathing room. Also, the entire set is made of cotton and satin which sounds like a great time if you ask me.

The best flannel pajamas if you crave the simple things in life

J.Crew

J.Crew Flannel Pajamas

It's not fair for my minimalist girls to not have a pair of flannel pajamas to choose from so this is for you. They're 100% cotton, have an elastic waist, and are machine-washable! Did I mention they're also loose-fitting if you're uninterested in your pajamas hugging your body? Oh yeah, these are for you.

The best flannel pajamas for kids

GAP Factory

babyGAP 100% Recycled Flannel Pajamas

Call it my mom instincts, but I can't forget kids! These cute plaid flannel pajamas are a great option for them to wear on Christmas Eve and the morning they get to open their presents. They're made of a soft jersey knit that'll keep up with a kid's moves, including bounding down the stairs or doing somersaults off the couch because they're excited for the holidays.

Petite Plume

Petite Plume Kid's Flannel Pajama Set

There's at least one princess in the family and it may be your little sister, niece, or daughter. No matter who she is, she'll appreciate these pretty pink flannel pajamas. They're free of harsh chemicals and are flame-resistant in case little one likes to sit close to the fireplace.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more holiday style inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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13 New TV Shows Your Friends Will Be Talking About Non-Stop This December

If your group chat is blowing up over the Bad Sisters premiere, or you're still reeling from that Outer Banks season 4 ending, never fear: these merry and bright December TV shows are here to save the day! (Don't worry though, they're not all about the holidays. Sometimes you need a break from even the best Christmas music!). Even though these programs offer wildly different things — from a gritty spy and life or death games to juicy reality dating and sitcom royalty — they're all the perfect choice for an evening in...especially if you've already watched all our Binge-Worthy November TV Shows ;).

Here are the best new December TV shows premiering in 2024.

​The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On season 3 — On Netflix December 4, 2024

Netflix

These couples are at a crossroads in their relationship: will they tie the knot and spend the rest of their lives together, or will they call it quits? It's a dilemma a lot of relationships face, and you'll have to tune in to find out how these couples handle the ultimate q.

The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On is hosted by Nick Lachey and Vanessa Lachey.

Black Doves — On Netflix December 5, 2024

Netflix

This thriller stars Keira Knightley as Helen, a politician's wife who doubles as a spy — and feeds her organization all his deepest, darkest secrets. But when her secret lover is assassinated, Helen is forced to play a dangerous game of survival that involves everyone she holds close. This December TV show is also set against London at Christmas...you really can't go wrong!

Black Doves stars Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Sarah Lancashire, Andrew Buchan, Adeel Akhtar, Tracey Ullman, Finn Bennett, Luther Ford, Andrew Koji, Kathryn Hunter, Sam Troughton, and Ella Lily Hyland.

Southern Charm season 10 — On Bravo December 5, 2024

Michelle Watt/Bravo

The best TV shows always involve reality TV, and nobody's doing it like Southern Charm. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, these ladies are balancing their "bless your hearts" and sweet tea with plenty of drama. Although...when is dating not dramatic? Our favorite familiar faces are joined by some newcomers, bringing a whole new edge to the show we know and love.

Southern Charm Season 10 stars Venita Aspen, Leva Bonaparte, Craig Conover, Taylor Ann Green, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Rodrigo Reyes, Shep Rose, Jarrett “JT” Thomas, Salley Carson, Ryan Albert, and Molly O’Connell.

The Sticky — On Prime Video December 6, 2024

Jan Thijs/Prime Video

Despite the fact this new series revolves around a maple syrup empire, it's actually not related to Riverdale. Sorry to disappoint! This dark comedy is inspired by the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, where a maple syrup farmer stole millions of dollars worth of syrup in order to save her livelihood. Yep, really.

The Sticky stars Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Guillaume Cyr.

Queer Eye season 9 — On Netflix December 11, 2024

Netflix

We're in need of some life advice right now, TBH, and thank goodness The Fab Five are bringing it in the new season of Queer Eye. And alongside the emotional stories and heartfelt connections they make in Vegas, we'll see plenty of fabulous style. Because duh!

Queer Eye Season 9 stars includes Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Tan France, and Jeremiah Brent.

No Good Deed — On Netflix December 12, 2024

Netflix

Sitcom fans rejoice! This December TV show has some of the all-time greats sharing the screen, and we can't wait to rewatch these episodes 100 times. Multiple families believe one house will solve all their problems, and are all racing to sign on the dotted line. But, naturally, the beautiful 1920s Spanish-style home isn't as beautiful as it appears.

No Good Deed stars Linda Cardellini, O-T Fagbenle, Abbi Jacobson, Lisa Kudrow, Denis Leary, Poppy Liu, Teyonah Parris, Ray Romano, and Luke Wilson.

Ready, Set, Glow — On Hallmark+ December 12, 2024

Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Hallmark Media

If your favorite scene from Jim Carrey's The Grinch is Molly Shannon and Christine Baranski's Christmas light competition, then this reality show is for you. Hallmark star Wes Brown introduces us to four families who have the best decorations around — and are sure to make your home feel even more festive.

Ready, Set, Glow is hosted by Wes Brown.

Paris & Nicole: The Encore — On Peacock December 12, 2024

Bravo

The girls are back!! Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie reunite in an attempt to produce something the world desperately needs: an operatic performance based on their iconic "Sanasa." Say no more.

"I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock," Paris told E! News. "Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her."

Paris & Nicole: The Encore stars Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie.

Virgin River season 6— On Netflix December 19, 2024

Netflix

In the face of loss and hardship, nobody comes together like the town of Virgin River. And despite the struggle, this season promises to be heartwarming and lovely too — Mel and Jack are finally getting married! Their nuptials are met with some family drama but don't worry romantics. True love is sure to win out.

Virgin River season 6 stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.

Laid — On Peacock December 19, 2024

James Dittiger/Peacock

According to the official Peacock site, this dark rom-com answers the age-old question of "Is there something wrong with me?" with “Yes. There is. The problem is definitely you.” This December TV show follows Stephanie Hsu's Ruby, who's in for a rude awakening when she realizes all of her past sexual encounters are dying. Now she has to get to the bottom of it before anyone else bites the dust.

Laid stars Stephanie Hsu, Zosia Mamet, Michael Angarano, Tommy Martinez, Andre Hyland, Olivia Holt, David Denman, Finneas O’Connell, Chloe Fineman, Ettore “Big E” Ewen, and John Early.

Kennedy Center Honors — On CBS December 22, 2024

Paul Morigi/Getty Images

The Kennedy Center Honors (a tribute ceremony that celebrates contributions to American performing art) always provide us with iconic moments — like Anna Kendrick fangirling over Beyoncé and Cynthia Erivo performing "Alfie" for Dionne Warwick. And this year promises to be no different.

The 2024 Kennedy Center Honors will honor Francis Ford Coppola, the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, and The Apollo.

Squid Game season 2 — On Netflix December 26, 2024

JuHan Noh/Netflix

Despite the fact we all took games very seriously in elementary school, I'm sure we can all agree no game of Red Light, Green Light comes close to the one in Squid Game. And we're in for another round of nail-biting challenges when season 2 drops December 26. As for what to expect?

"As we all saw at the end of season 1, the main plot of season 2 will be revenge," actor Lee Jung Jae told All K-Pop. "The key figure who controlled the workings of the games in season 1 was Lee Byung-Hun...it seems that the two of us will be the central figures of this next story."

Squid Game season 2 stars Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun.

Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve — On ABC December 31, 2024

New Year’s Rockin’ Eve

If you ask me, there's no December TV show as iconic as New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. It's going to be the perfect way to ring out 2024 (and welcome 2025). Although I have to admit, I don't know how they're going to top Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla's performances from last year!

Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is hosted by Ryan Seacrest.

Which December TV show are you most looking forward to? Don't forget to add these 12 Cozy New Christmas Movies On Netflix, Prime Video, Hallmark Channel, & More This Year to your watchlist!

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25 Delicious Recipes To Use Up Those Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving dinner is a meal we look forward to all year long. The savory stuffing, the roasted turkey, the cranberry sauce — does it get any better than that? Well if you ask us, the best part are the leftovers! And we're talking about more scrumptious meals than the usual turkey sandwich. We've scoured the internet for different ways to put that surplus of food — trimmings included — to use. These 15 recipes will have you licking your chops.

Amazing Thanksgiving leftovers the entire family will won't mind eating until the first week of December

Butternut Bakery

Pumpkin Cupcakes

Don't throw away that pumpkin purée just yet! You can use it to make delicious pumpkin cupcakes the entire family will keep coming back for. Once you add in a little pumpkin pie spice, flour, baking soda, dark brown sugar, and more goodies, you'll have 12 sweet treats to munch after Thanksgiving.

P.S. You may want to have someone else bake this recipe a second time so you can have 24 cupcakes!

Cozy Cravings

Butternut Squash and Bacon Crostini

Your family will become a huge fan of crostinis once they taste this recipe. Between the butternut squash, ricotta cheese, and bacon, everyone will be eating sweet as well as savory mini sandwiches.

Munching with Mariyah

Curried Pumpkin Red Lentil Soup

Blend your leftover pumpkin and squash with coconut milk, red curry paste, ginger, and more veggies for the heartiest lentil soup you've ever tasted. Everyone will be looking to recreate this dish for a taste of lentils once they eat it, er, sip it.

Brit + Co

Gluten-Free Frittata Recipe

Bring your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers together with some cheese, peppers, and onions for a delicious frittata. You can eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

The Butter Half

Thanksgiving Leftover Pop Tarts

These savory pop tarts are filled with cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and bits of tender turkey, then drizzled with gravy for a snack or meal that will knock your socks off. (via The Butter Half)

Foodess

Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Put the sandwiches on hold, because this turkey pot pie is the *only* way to use those turkey leftovers to their greatest potential.

A Sweet Pea Chef

Leftover Turkey Salad With Cranberry Vinaigrette

Take your comfort food and turn it into something nutritious by topping salad with leftover turkey and a vinaigrette made with leftover cranberries.

Spices in My DNA

Thanksgiving Leftovers Everything Bagel Sandwich

This recipe stuffs your everything bagel with a poached egg, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and turkey.

The Seasoned Mom

Aunt Bee's Leftover Turkey Casserole

It's cozy casserole season, so this recipe is the perfect way to use up that leftover turkey by adding it to a pasta bake that is rich, creamy, and jam-packed with flavor.

Lively Table

Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

Nothing soothes the soul better than a steamy bowl of soup like this, filled to the brim with tender shredded turkey, nourishing veggies, and a generous dollop of Greek yogurt for extra smoothness.

The Cookie Recipe

Deep-Fried Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

If you don't know what to do with that heap of extra mashed potatoes, we've got you covered with these crispy potato, bacon, and cheese-filled bites of glory.

What Should I Make For...

Thanksgiving on a Roll

If you want ALL the carbs, this recipe sandwiches turkey and all the fixin's between a fresh roll and it. Is. Magical.

Whitney Bond

Turkey Fajita Rice Bowls

Kick things up a notch and put a healthy spin on your leftover turkey with these veggie-filled fajita rice bowls.

Yes to Yolks

Thanksgiving Leftovers Pierogi

This recipe smashes the traditional pierogi together with leftover Thanksgiving goodies for a fun and seasonal spin on a classic.

Jessica in the Kitcen

Vegetarian Meatloaf and Cranberry Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich

Vegetarians can enjoy Thanksgiving to the max too, and if anything proves it, it's this stacked meatless 'wich that swaps the usual turkey for plant-based meatloaf.

Pickled Plum

Leftover Turkey Dinner Hash

These turkey-filled hash patties will make brunch fanatics swoon with their festive flavor and golden crisp exterior.

Bless Her Heart Y'all

Turkey Teriyaki Stir-Fry

This feast doesn't just give you a healthful meal after gorging on holiday eats, but it also serves as a weeknight wonder, clocking in at just 15 minutes from start to finish!

Chef de Home

Turkey Tetrazzini With Mushrooms

Putting that leftover turkey to use never looked so good with this creamy mushroom and pasta-filled tetrazzini.

Half Baked Harvest

Thanksgiving Leftovers Croque Madame

This Thanksgiving leftovers croque Madame sandwich is an excellent way to serve breakfast on Black Friday. After all, you'll need an extra boost from the fried eggs to get you through your mad dash at the mall!

Vikalinka

Butternut Squash Casserole

Not sure what to do with all the leftover butternut squash? Make a cheesy au gratin casserole!

Crowded Kitchen

Vegan Cornbread Stuffing

Don't throw away your cornbread after Thanksgiving! You can use what's leftover to bake vegan cornbread stuffing to give it a toasted yet flavorful taste.

Crowded Kitchen

Pumpkin Salad

This tasty and crunchy pumpkin salad is a great option to make if you're confused about what to do with your leftover pumpkins.

Averie Cooks

Caramel Apple Gingerbread Cookie Cups

Let's say you bought one too many apples for the apple pie you baked. Instead of lamenting over your 'mishap,' use what's leftover after Thanksgiving to make caramel apple gingerbread cookie cups!

Completely Delicious

Thanksgiving Leftovers Pizza

This delicious leftover pizza is a thoughtful option for anyone who swears they're tired of eating leftover Thanksgiving turkey after a couple of days.

Pink Owl Kitchen

Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

Chances are it'll be cold the week of Thanksgiving so use your leftover sweet potatoes to create this creamy soup. It's good for the soul!

For more Thanksgiving leftover recipes, follow us on Pinterest — and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

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