Soaked squares

Syrupy squares with vanilla and lemon flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 16 squares

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert, these syrupy squares are the perfect choice. With a fluffy texture and aromatic syrup, these treats are sure to become family favorites. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 4 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup melted butter (or sunflower oil for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup milk (you can also use plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 vanilla essence (or 1 vanilla pod for a more intense flavor)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for an extra freshness)
- A pinch of salt

For the syrup:

- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 lemon (juice squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla essence

Step by step:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking tray (20x30 cm) greased with butter or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add 2/3 cup of sugar, continuing to beat until you get a glossy and firm meringue.

3. In another bowl, mix the yolks with the melted butter, milk, vanilla essence, and lemon zest. Ensure the mixture is smooth.

4. Sift the flour together with the baking powder over the yolk mixture and gently fold in with a spatula. Then add the meringue, mixing carefully to retain air in the batter.

5. Pour the obtained mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Meanwhile, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once boiling, let it simmer for 5 minutes, then add the vanilla essence. Let it cool.

7. After the base is baked, remove it from the oven and, while still warm, pour the syrup evenly over it. Allow it to absorb the syrup for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.

Serving suggestions:

These syrupy squares can be served plain or with a dollop of sour cream or whipped cream. An interesting variation would be to garnish them with candied lemon slices or roasted nuts for added texture.

Possible variations:

You can experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa to the batter for chocolate squares or replacing the lemon zest with orange for a different citrus note.

These syrupy squares are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. So put on your apron and enjoy this simple and delicious recipe!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 2/3 cup / 160 g sugar + 1 1/2 cup / 300 g sugar, 2 tablespoons + 1/2 cup / 60 g cocoa, 1/4 cup / 30 g starch, 1/4 cup / 30 g flour, 1/3 cup / 40 g self-rising flour, 90 g soft butter, 3/4 cup / 180 ml water