Lemon Bars
Dive into Lemon Bars, a perfect blend of tangy and sweet. This easy guide offers step-by-step instructions for delicious, crumbly lemon bars.
Servings: 24 bars
Calories: 190kcal
Equipment
- Pastry Cutter
- 9x13 inch Pan
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup salted butter softened4 eggs
- 2 cups white sugar
- ⅓ cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- ½ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
- Cut the softened butter stick into four pieces and add it to the bowl of sugar and flour. Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the mixture until it clings together and is crumbly.
- Pour the shortbread crust into a 9X13 inch glass baking pan and press in until the bottom is covered evenly.
- Bake the crust for 20 to 25 minutes, until just turning golden. Remove from the oven to set aside and cool.
- While the crust is baking, make the filling. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whisk together the eggs, white sugar, and lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and lemon zest. Add these dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix together. The batter will be very runny.
- Pour the lemon batter evenly over the baked, cooled crust.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes. It should be a light golden brown.
- Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool before cutting and serving.
- Dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar (try using a fine sieve or sifter) and cut into squares.
Notes
Storage and Reheating Instructions:
How to Store Lemon Bars:
These will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. Just use parchment paper to separate the layers if you have to stack them in a container. Keep them in an airtight container. Or, you may freeze them for up to 3 months.How to Reheat Lemon Bars:
Reheating isn't necessary but if you prefer your Lemon Bars a bit on the warmer side, a quick zap in the microwave will do the trick—just be careful not to melt that sugary top.Helpful Tips & Substitutions
Can This Be Frozen?
Absolutely! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They'll last for about three months. Thaw them in the fridge or on the counter when you're ready for a treat.Can This Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, and you should! Making them a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-Free? Swap the flour for your favorite GF blend.
- Vegan? There are great vegan butter and egg substitutes out there.
- Love Orange? Use orange juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
Helpful Cooking Notes
- Lemon Zest: Don't skip it! It adds an irreplaceable depth of flavor.
- Cutting Bars: Use a hot knife for clean cuts. Dip it in hot water, wipe quickly, and slice.
- Sifting Sugar: For an even dusting of powdered sugar, use a fine sieve or sifter.