Lemon bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With a buttery crust and a zesty lemon filling, they’re a treat that feels light and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for a family get-together, a party, or just because you’re in the mood for something citrusy, lemon bars are always a hit. They’re simple to make and bring a little sunshine to any table. Let’s get started on this delightful recipe.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of Lemon Bars:
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For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
Timing
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
How to Make Lemon Bars: Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Make the Lemon Filling:
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the sugar and flour in a separate bowl.
- Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and whisk until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
3. Bake the Lemon Bars:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing.
Choosing the Best Lemons for Your Bars
For the tangiest flavor, I recommend using fresh, organic lemons. Meyer lemons are a bit sweeter, while regular lemons give that classic tartness. Whichever you choose, make sure they’re firm and bright yellow.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Lemon Bar Crust
The secret to a perfect crust is cold butter and not over-mixing the dough. Press it evenly into the pan to ensure a uniform thickness, which helps it bake evenly.
How to Make the Tangiest Lemon Filling
To get that sharp, tangy flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest. The zest adds extra depth, making each bite burst with lemony goodness.
Baking Your Lemon Bars to Perfection: Time and Temperature Tips
Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. The edges should be set, and the center should no longer jiggle when gently shaken. If you overbake, the filling can become dry, so start checking at the 20-minute mark.
How to Cut Bars for Clean, Even Slices
For the cleanest cuts, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get those perfect, even squares.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Bars
Lemon Bars are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top just before serving.
Storing and Keeping Your Bars Fresh
Store your Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully for up to three months.
Lemon Bars Variations: Creative Twists on the Classic Recipe
- Berry Lemon Bars: Add a layer of fresh berries between the crust and the lemon filling.
- Coconut Lemon Bars: Mix shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist.
- Lavender Lemon Bars: Infuse the sugar with dried lavender for a floral note.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Lemon Bars contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
Conclusion
If you’ve never tried making Lemon Bars before, I encourage you to give it a shot. This recipe is straightforward and yields a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to brighten up your day, these Lemon Bars are sure to impress.