Save to Pinterest These lemon bars feature a tender, buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious lemon curd. The filling is perfectly tart, enhanced by fresh lemon juice and zest, while the crust provides a crumbly, rich base. Baked in a 9x13-inch pan, the bars are cooled and chilled to achieve clean cuts, then dusted with powdered sugar for a delicate finish. Ideal for a refreshing dessert that balances sweetness and citrus brightness with every bite.
Discovering lemon bars was like unearthing a secret treasure in my grandmother's kitchen. The bright zing of lemon combined with a buttery crust instantly made me a lifelong fan of this classic dessert.
I remember the first time unexpected guests arrived and I whipped these up with what I had on hand. The smile on everyone's face made me realize I had nailed something special.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: I always use softened unsalted butter for the shortbread crust to control the saltiness with precision
- Granulated sugar: Choosing fine granulated sugar helps the crust get that subtle sweetness without graininess
- All-purpose flour: Essential for giving structure to both crust and filling, sift it gently to avoid lumps
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance flavors without overwhelming
- Large eggs: Bring richness to the lemon filling, fresh is best
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Nothing beats the bright, natural tartness from real lemons; avoid bottled for best flavor
- Lemon zest: Optional but recommended—adds an aromatic punch that sets the bars apart
- Powdered sugar: For dusting, it gives the perfect final touch and a hint of sweetness on top
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang so you can lift the bars out easily later.
- Make The Crust:
- Cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until it feels light and fluffy, then mix in flour and salt until a crumbly dough forms. Press this evenly into your prepared pan and bake until lightly golden with that tempting nutty aroma filling your kitchen.
- Mix The Filling:
- While the crust bakes, whisk together sugar and flour. Add in whole eggs, lemon juice, and zest; whisking until smooth and shiny—a bright yellow that speaks summer.
- Combine And Bake:
- Pour your lemon filling over the hot crust right out of the oven, then return the pan to bake until the filling just sets but still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan, about 15–18 minutes.
- Cool And Serve:
- Once baked, cool the bars completely in the pan then chill in your fridge for at least an hour so they slice cleanly. Use the parchment edges to lift out the slab, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before sharing.
Save to Pinterest This recipe quickly became more than just dessert to me; it turned into a symbol of warmth, comfort, and spontaneous celebrations shared around the table.
Keeping It Fresh
Store your lemon bars in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to five days. I find that they taste even better after a day as the flavors meld beautifully.
When You're Missing Something
If you ever run out of lemon zest, a tiny splash of vanilla extract in the filling works wonders to add depth. Or try swapping lemons for limes to surprise your taste buds.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Serve these lemon bars on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
- Don't forget to dust with powdered sugar just before serving—it adds that bakery charm
- If you want a little more texture, chop some toasted almonds and sprinkle on top
- Store leftovers well wrapped to keep them tasting fresh
Save to Pinterest Thanks for spending some kitchen time with me—here's to many more delicious discoveries together.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure a crisp shortbread crust?
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Use cold butter and minimal mixing for a crumbly texture, then bake until lightly golden before adding the lemon topping.
- → Can I substitute lime juice for lemon?
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Yes, lime juice and zest can replace lemon for a citrus twist that changes the flavor profile while maintaining tartness.
- → How long should I chill the bars?
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Chill for at least one hour to allow the filling to set firmly, making it easier to cut neat squares.
- → What is the purpose of dusting powdered sugar?
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Powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and an attractive finish to the bars before serving.
- → Are these bars suitable for a vegetarian diet?
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Yes, they contain no meat ingredients, making them suitable for vegetarians.
