Description
These bright lemon dessert bars feature a tangy shortbread crust and a rich, fresh lemon filling. They are easy to make, require minimal active time, and offer the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and grease lightly.
- In a medium bowl, mix softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add flour and salt, mixing until just combined and crumbly.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly while making the filling.
- In a large bowl, whisk granulated sugar and flour until no lumps remain. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
- Whisk in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the warm crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour (or chill for 2 hours) to allow bars to set.
- Lift bars out using the parchment sling, slice into squares, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best texture. Do not overbake to avoid cracking. The crust must be pressed firmly to prevent sogginess. Bars taste better the next day as flavors meld. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-43 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Protein: 2
Keywords: lemon bars, shortbread crust, summer dessert, easy baking, tangy lemon, fresh lemon juice, party dessert