Lemon Bars: A Tangy, Sweet, and Refreshing Dessert

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both tangy and sweet, Lemon Bars are the perfect treat. With a buttery, crumbly crust and a bright, zesty lemon filling, these bars are a classic favorite that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a picnic, or just for a light dessert after dinner, these lemon bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while offering a refreshing citrusy kick.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Lemon Filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix with your hands or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, making sure the crust is compact and even.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown. While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until well combined. Add the flour, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Add the Filling to the Crust

Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the lemon filling over the hot crust.

Step 6: Bake the Lemon Bars

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set and the edges are lightly golden. You can check for doneness by gently tapping the center of the filling—it should be firm but slightly jiggle in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing into squares. For an extra touch, you can garnish with lemon zest or slices.

Step 8: Serve

Cut into squares and serve. These lemon bars are best enjoyed chilled, so refrigerate them for 30 minutes to an hour before serving for a perfectly refreshing treat.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Bars are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or alongside a cup of hot tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They are also perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of a buttery, shortbread-like crust with a tangy, smooth lemon filling is what makes these lemon bars so irresistible. The balance of sweet and tart flavors is refreshing, and the slight crunch of the powdered sugar on top adds the perfect finishing touch. This easy-to-make recipe yields a treat that’s both satisfying and light, making it a favorite for any occasion.

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FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is always recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, fresh juice will provide a much brighter, more vibrant taste.

2. Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?

Yes! Lemon bars are actually better when made ahead of time. You can prepare them the day before and store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let them cool completely before refrigerating, and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

3. Can I make the crust with a different type of flour?

If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still work well.

4. Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, you can make the crust dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter substitute like margarine or coconut oil. For the filling, the recipe is already dairy-free, so you can enjoy it as is.

5. How do I store leftover lemon bars?

Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are best enjoyed chilled, so keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

6. Can I add other fruit flavors to the filling?

Yes, you can get creative with the flavor of the filling! Try adding a little lime or orange zest for a citrusy twist, or substitute some of the lemon juice with other fruit juices for a fun variation.

7. How do I know when the lemon filling is done baking?

The filling is done when it is set and lightly golden at the edges. It should be firm but slightly jiggle in the center. If you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Can I make the lemon filling without eggs?

For an egg-free version, you can try using an egg replacer, such as a mixture of cornstarch and water or flaxseed meal, but the texture and flavor may vary. Traditional lemon bars do rely on eggs for their smooth, creamy filling.

9. Can I freeze lemon bars?

Yes, you can freeze lemon bars. After they have cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

10. Can I make these in a different size pan?

You can make lemon bars in a different size pan, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan will result in thinner bars, while a smaller pan will yield thicker bars. Keep an eye on the bars while they bake to make sure they don’t overcook.