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the best lemon bars 1

The Best Lemon Bars: The Ultimate Guide to Making Perfectly Tangy and Sweet Lemon Bars

  • Author: Elyse
  • Total Time: 55 minutes (plus cooling time)
  • Yield: One 8x8 or 9x9-inch batch 1x

Description

These Classic Lemon Bars are the perfect combination of buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, creamy lemon filling. Light, refreshing, and dusted with powdered sugar, these bars offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself!

Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve perfectly set lemon bars with crisp edges and a smooth, zesty filling.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a silkier texture)
  • 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For Garnishing:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, flour, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until crumbly.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  5. Remove from the oven and set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling

  1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour (or cornstarch), lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  2. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust immediately after baking.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

  1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the filling is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  2. Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
  3. Refrigerate for another hour for easier slicing.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

  1. Once fully cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang.
  2. Use a sharp knife dusted with powdered sugar to slice into squares.
  3. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish.

Notes

✅ For extra tang: Increase lemon juice to 3/4 cup and reduce sugar by 1/4 cup.
✅ For a firmer filling: Use cornstarch instead of flour in the lemon mixture.
✅ To store: Keep refrigerated for up to one week in an airtight container.
✅ To freeze: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

💡 Flavor Variations:

  • Add a pinch of lavender for a floral twist.
  • Swap lemon zest for lime or orange zest for a citrus mix.
  • Use a coconut shortbread crust for extra depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes (including crust and filling baking time)
  • Category: sweet sensations
  • Method: Dessert, Snack
  • Cuisine: American, Dessert

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12 bars
  • Calories: ~210
  • Sugar: ~18g
  • Fat: ~9g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Protein: ~3g

Find it online: https://elyserecipes.com/the-best-lemon-bars-perfect-sweet-tangy-treat