Lemon Bars Recipe: A Perfect Sweet and Tart Treat!

Lemon bars are like a slice of sunshine on a plate, don’t you think? There’s something about the combination of buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, lemony filling that just screams comfort and joy. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a sweet treat to go with your afternoon tea, or simply craving a burst of citrus, these lemon bars are the perfect answer. Today, I’m excited to share this easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

What Makes These Lemon Bars a Must-Try?

First things first—let’s talk about what sets these lemon bars apart. The crust is a simple yet decadent shortbread, made with just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s perfectly buttery with just the right amount of sweetness. Then there’s the filling—a vibrant, zesty lemon curd that balances sweetness and tartness beautifully. The combination is pure magic, offering a delightful contrast in every bite.

this Recipe

These lemon bars are:

• Packed with flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest give the bars an intense citrus flavor.
• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
• Perfectly balanced: Not too sweet, not too tart—just the right mix for a satisfying treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For The Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This is the key to that melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the crust.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the base.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the buttery goodness.

For The Filling:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the lemon filling, making it irresistible.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling for the perfect consistency.
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature – The eggs create a rich and smooth filling.
• ⅔ cup fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons) – The star of the show, bringing all that zesty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 2-3 small lemons) – Enhances the lemony taste and adds a bit of texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pan and Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×13 inch glass baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set it aside.

2. Make the Crust

• In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup softened butter, 2 cups flour, and ½ cup sugar until well blended.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
• Bake the crust for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it’s firm and golden.

3. Prepare the Filling

• While the crust is baking, whisk together 1 ½ cups sugar and ¼ cup flour in a separate bowl.
• Add the 4 eggs, ⅔ cup lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and whisk until smooth and well combined.

4. Combine and Bake

• Once the crust is done, pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust.
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan.

5. Cool and Chill

• Let the lemon bars cool at room temperature on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, transfer the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours before cutting into squares.
• For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the bars with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon bars are fantastic on their own, but if you’re looking to elevate them a bit:

• Top with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and additional flavor.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Pair with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade for a refreshing combo.

FAQ: Your Lemon Bar Questions Answered

Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Bottled juice can sometimes taste artificial and lack the vibrant tartness of fresh lemons.

How do I know when the filling is set? The filling should be firm to the touch and no longer jiggly in the center. If you’re unsure, insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.

How should I store leftover lemon bars? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, but they rarely last that long!

More Delicious Treats to Try

If you loved these lemon bars, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:

• The Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Chewy, soft, and packed with flavor, these oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic treat.
• Peanut Butter Snickerdoodles Recipe: A delightful twist on a traditional favorite, combining the rich flavor of peanut butter with a cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl Cookies: Indulge in these decadent cookies that swirl rich brownie batter with creamy peanut butter for a truly irresistible treat.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try these zesty lemon bars! They’re a perfect dessert for any occasion—light, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just treating yourself, these lemon bars are sure to brighten up your day. Let me know in the comments how yours turned out, and don’t forget to share your own tips or twists on this classic recipe. Happy baking!

ove this recipe? save it for later and enjoy your summer treats!

Whip up this zesty Lemon Bars Recipe and enjoy every sweet, tangy bite! If you try these bars, be sure to leave a review and share your mouthwatering photos on Pinterest. Happy baking!

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