Why make this recipe
Lemon bars are a delightful treat that combines a zesty lemon filling with a buttery crust. They are perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tart flavors. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Whether for a summer picnic, a bake sale, or just a snack at home, these bars are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
How to make Lemon Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch pan.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Pour this lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
How to serve Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. You can serve them plain or add a dusting of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness. They are perfect for dessert, but you can also enjoy them as a refreshing snack.
How to store Lemon Bars
To store lemon bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for about a week. For even longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze them for up to three months.
Tips to make Lemon Bars
- Make sure to use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the filling; mix until just combined to keep it light and airy.
- For a thicker crust, you can increase the flour amount slightly.
Variation
You can easily customize lemon bars by adding flavors like lime or orange for a citrus twist. You could also mix in some poppy seeds for a bit of texture or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a delicious contrast.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh juice provides a better flavor.
2. How can I tell when the lemon bars are done?
Lemon bars are done when the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking pan. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed.
Lemon Bars
Delicious lemon bars with a zesty filling and buttery crust, perfect for summer picnics and snacks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the flour and powdered sugar in a bowl. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch pan.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes.
- Whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt in another bowl.
- Pour this lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.
Notes
Best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg


