Description
These classic Lemon Bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a tangy, luscious lemon filling. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and citrus flavor, they make a delightful dessert or snack that’s easy to prepare and sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large fresh eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and softened unsalted butter. Mix these ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly, then press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust alone for about 15 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. This step helps ensure a crisp base for the lemon filling.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining 1 cup granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon filling mixture over the warm baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 9 squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
Notes
- Make sure to soften the butter to room temperature for easier mixing and a better crust texture.
- The bars are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest quantities to taste for more or less tartness.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice will not provide the same brightness.
- Lemon bars can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to fully develop.
