Why Make This Recipe
Lemon bars are a delightful and refreshing dessert that everyone can enjoy. Their bright, tangy flavor is perfect for any occasion, from a summer picnic to a cozy winter gathering. Easy to make and delicious to eat, these bars are a great way to impress friends and family without spending too much time in the kitchen.
How to Make Lemon Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- Additional confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the flour, butter, and confectioners’ sugar.
- Pat this mixture into an ungreased 8-inch square baking pan.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes.
- For the filling, in a small bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add the sugar, flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and zest; beat until frothy.
- Pour this mixture over the crust and bake for 25 minutes longer, or until light golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack, then dust with confectioners’ sugar and cut into bars.
How to Serve Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can cut them into squares or triangles and dust them with extra confectioners’ sugar for a beautiful presentation. They are great on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
How to Store Lemon Bars
You can store lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’re making them ahead of time, they also freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer.
Tips to Make Lemon Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adding lemon zest enhances the lemony taste and gives a nice texture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to avoid messy slices.
Variation
You can add different flavors to lemon bars by mixing in berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. You can also try using lime juice and zest for lime bars, which are just as delicious!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought lemon juice?
Yes, but freshly squeezed lemon juice provides better flavor.
How do I know when the lemon bars are done baking?
They should be light golden brown on top and set in the center when they are done.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan and increase the baking time as needed.
Lemon Bars
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the flour, butter, and confectioners' sugar.
- Pat this mixture into an ungreased 8-inch square baking pan.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add the sugar, flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and zest; beat until frothy.
- Pour this mixture over the crust and bake for 25 minutes longer, or until light golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack, then dust with confectioners' sugar and cut into bars.
