Delish Lemon Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both tangy and sweet, this lemon bars recipe is about to become your new favorite. With a zesty lemon filling that sits atop a buttery shortbread crust, each bite is sheer perfection. Lemon bars have been a beloved treat in many households for generations, and for good reason.

Growing up, my grandmother’s lemon bars were at every family gathering, and they were nothing short of legendary. I can still remember sneaking into the kitchen as a child, trying to snag a piece of the golden crust before it had cooled. The aroma of fresh lemon zest and sugar in the air was the perfect reminder of coming home. It’s through these memories that I’ve come to cherish and perfect this recipe, ensuring that it lives on for the next generation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true delight for all lemon lovers. The combination of a crumbly, buttery shortbread crust and a luscious tart lemon filling is irresistible. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few pantry staples, which means you can whip these bars up at a moment’s notice. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion, these bars are a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to be the first dessert to vanish.

Ingredients Notes

To achieve the ultimate lemon flavor, fresh lemons are a must. Opt for organic lemons if possible to avoid any pesticides in the zest. If you’re out of lemons, try using limes for a twist on the classic flavor. For the crust, high-quality unsalted butter will render a richer taste, while all-purpose flour ensures a consistent texture.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 3

Bake the crust for 15–20 minutes or until lightly golden. While waiting, prepare the lemon filling by whisking together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour.

Step 4

Once the crust is baked, pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and begins to slightly brown around the edges.

Step 5

Allow the lemon bars to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, place the bars in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer for up to three months. To serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours.

Variations & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. If you prefer a sweeter bar, add a couple of tablespoons more sugar to the filling. Alternatively, add a dash of vanilla extract for a nuanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon bars make a refreshing summer dessert and pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They can be served at picnics, afternoon teas, or even as a light dessert after a heavy meal. A chilled glass of iced tea also complements them beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these lemon bars in advance?
Absolutely! These lemon bars taste even better the next day, after the flavors have melded together. Make them a day ahead, refrigerate them overnight, and sprinkle with powdered sugar just before serving.

What if my lemon bars are too runny?
If your lemon bars turn out runny, ensure that you’ve baked them long enough for the filling to set. It might also help to slightly increase baking time as oven temperatures can vary. Make sure to fully cool the bars before cutting, as the filling firms up as it cools.

Do I need to refrigerate lemon bars?
Yes, it’s best to store lemon bars in the refrigerator due to the egg filling. This keeps them fresh and maintains their texture. Arrange in layers, with parchment in between if stacking, to avoid sticking.

Delish Lemon Bars Recipe

A delightful dessert with a tangy lemon flavor and a buttery crust, perfect for any occasion.

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Course: Dessert

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 2 hours hours

Servings: 16 squares

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ For the Shortbread Crust:
• ▢ 1/2 lb 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• ▢ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon salt
• ▢ For the Lemon Filling:
• ▢ 4 large eggs
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• ▢ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• ▢ 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 3–4 lemons
• ▢ 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ▢ For Dusting:
• ▢ Powdered sugar for topping

Instructions

• Make the Crust:
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
• In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and smooth.
• Add flour and salt, mixing until it becomes a crumbly dough.
• Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
• Make the Lemon Filling:
• In a clean bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth.
• Add the flour, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until fully combined.
• Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
• Bake Again:
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and doesn’t jiggle.
• Cool & Serve:
• Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.

Notes

Garnish with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.