Lemon bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweet and tart flavors, making them a favorite for dessert lovers. This recipe features a buttery shortbread crust that serves as the perfect foundation for the zesty lemon filling. With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh lemon juice and zest, these bars are incredibly refreshing and ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering. The simplicity of the preparation means you can whip them up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with your loved ones.
Once baked, these lemon bars are best served chilled, allowing the filling to set to a creamy perfection. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, contrasting beautifully with the tart lemon flavor. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the crust, followed by the smooth, tangy filling that brightens your palate. These lemon bars are not just a dessert; they’re a slice of sunshine that brings a little joy to any day.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup (160ml) fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1 – Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2 – Make the Crust:
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- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
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- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
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3- Prepare the Lemon Filling:
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- In another bowl, whisk together sugar and flour to combine.
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- Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using), and whisk until smooth.
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- Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust.
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4 – Bake the Lemon Bars:
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- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle when shaken.
5 – Cool and Serve:
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- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature. After they cool, refrigerate them for at least 1 hour.
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- Once chilled, dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve.
