Getty Images / AllrecipesWhen thinking of Lady Bird Johnson, her iconic name likely comes to mind. Born Claudia Alta Taylor, the first lady was affectionately given the nickname “Lady Bird” by a nursemaid. She is also remembered for her environmental efforts, such as the Highway Beautification Act, which earned her the Medal of Freedom.Apart from her role as first lady, Lady Bird was recognized for her culinary skills. She took pleasure in collecting family recipes that reflected the Johnsons’ Texan heritage. These recipes have been shared online, in cookbooks, and in her 1970 memoir, “A White House Diary.” From these sources, we learn about Lady Bird’s famous Cheddar Wafers, the bundt cake served at her daughter’s wedding reception, and President Johnson’s fondness for chili.In a recent post by the LBJ Presidential Library on Instagram, Lady Bird’s Lemon Squares recipe was shared. The post includes a vintage photo of the Johnson family enjoying the dessert and a typewritten copy of the recipe.The recipe is straightforward and uses common ingredients found in most kitchens: flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, and lemons. To make Lady Bird Johnson’s Lemon Squares, start by preparing the crust with a mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. Press the dough into a baking dish and bake until lightly golden brown. While the crust bakes, prepare the custard filling with flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven until set. Once cooled, dust the lemon squares with powdered sugar.Voila! A simple and delightful spring dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. These Lemon Squares may soon become your go-to lemon treat.
