Introduction
Treat yourself to a burst of citrusy goodness with our delightful Lemon Bars. These tangy, sweet treats feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious layer of lemony filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for dessert enthusiasts and citrus lovers seeking a tantalizing combination of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a zesty dessert, Lemon Bars are a delightful choice.
Why It’s Great
Lemon Bars offer a refreshing change from traditional sweet treats. Their bright and vibrant flavor profile, coupled with the simplicity of preparation, makes them a crowd-pleaser and a perfect addition to any dessert spread.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Lemon Bars:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Recipe Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt for the crust. Mix until it forms a crumbly dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour.
- Add the eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest to the sugar mixture. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling over the partially baked crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the Lemon Bars cool completely in the pan.
- Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars from the pan and place them on a cutting board. Cut into squares or bars.
Kitchen Equipment
For crafting these zesty bars, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your Lemon Bars:
- Chilled: Serve cold for a refreshing citrusy treat on a warm day.
- Garnished: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional lemon zest for added zestiness.
Recipe Variations
- Shortbread Variation: Use a shortbread cookie crust instead of the traditional crust for a richer, buttery flavor.
- Meyer Lemon Twist: Substitute regular lemons with Meyer lemons for a slightly sweeter and milder flavor.
FAQ
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor. However, if unavailable, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
You can slightly adjust the amount of sugar in the filling according to your taste preferences without compromising the texture.
Can I freeze Lemon Bars?
Yes! Once cooled and cut into squares, wrap them individually in parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container for future enjoyment.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Indulge in the zesty delight of our Lemon Bars recipe. Share these tangy treats with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more flavorful dessert inspirations. Enjoy each citrusy bite of these delectable bars, reveling in the refreshing taste of lemony goodness!