Lemon Bars Recipe

Lemon bars are a delightful treat that brings a burst of zesty, citrusy goodness to your palate. The balance of tangy lemon and the sweet shortbread crust creates an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion. These vibrant bars are refreshingly light, yet rich enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack or serving them at a summer gathering, lemon bars deliver the perfect harmony of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

The success of lemon bars hinges on a few essential ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the star, providing that distinctively tart kick that contrasts beautifully with the buttery crust. It’s crucial to use fresh lemons, as bottled juice doesn’t quite capture the same brightness. The zest from three lemons enhances the citrus flavor even more, adding depth to the filling. Unsalted butter, melted and incorporated into the shortbread, offers a rich, tender base that holds the filling. If you’re in a pinch, a pinch of vanilla extract can be added to the crust for a hint of warmth, though it’s completely optional. The powdered sugar in the crust adds a fine texture that helps achieve a light crispiness once baked, while the granulated sugar in the filling sweetens and complements the tartness of the lemon juice.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Lemon Bars

To create the perfect lemon bars, start by preparing the shortbread crust. Mix 2 1/2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl. Stir in the melted butter until a smooth dough forms, and press it evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake the crust until it turns a delicate golden color, ensuring a firm foundation for the luscious lemon filling.

While the crust bakes, infuse your sugar with lemon zest by pulsing it in a food processor. This step enhances the lemon flavor, making each bite burst with citrus. In a separate bowl, whisk the zested sugar, the remaining flour, lemon juice, and eggs together until the filling is smooth and velvety. Pour the mixture over the warm crust and return it to the oven. Bake until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center, ensuring a soft and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Once baked, allow the lemon bars to cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. This ensures the filling sets completely and the bars are easy to slice.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

How to make sure the lemon filling sets properly?
Ensure the filling reaches the right consistency by baking it until it’s set in the center but still has a slight wobble. It will firm up as it cools.

Tips for achieving a perfectly even crust?
Press the dough evenly into the pan to avoid an uneven bake. Use the bottom of a flat glass or your hands to ensure the layer is smooth.

How to adjust the sweetness or tartness based on preference?
If you prefer a sweeter dessert, reduce the lemon juice slightly or increase the sugar. For a more pronounced tang, you can add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or zest.

Storage tips for keeping the bars fresh?
Once cooled, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days. You can also freeze them for up to a month, but be sure to dust with powdered sugar after thawing to maintain freshness.

Can I use a different type of citrus for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lemon juice with lime, orange, or even grapefruit juice for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

How can I tell when the lemon bars are fully baked?
The filling should be firm but slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.

What is the best way to store lemon bars, and how long do they last?
Lemon bars should be refrigerated in an airtight container and can last up to four days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to a month.

What to Serve with Lemon Bars

Lemon bars pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of fresh berries to bring an extra layer of flavor to the dish. The tartness of the lemon is beautifully balanced with the sweetness of strawberries or raspberries. For beverages, consider serving lemon bars with a light, refreshing drink such as iced green tea, lemonade, or even a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon or mint. Hot teas like chamomile or Earl Grey also offer a subtle contrast to the zesty citrus flavor.

How to Cut and Serve Lemon Bars

To achieve the cleanest cuts, it’s best to chill the lemon bars for at least two hours before slicing. This ensures the filling has fully set and won’t stick to the knife. Use a sharp knife, dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts, for perfect squares. After cutting, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra lemon zest on top to further enhance the presentation. When serving at parties, arrange the bars on a decorative platter or tiered stand for a beautiful display that will impress your guests.

When preparing lemon bars for gatherings or special occasions, consider creative presentation ideas to elevate their visual appeal. For a rustic look, place them on a wooden board lined with parchment paper. For a more sophisticated touch, serve them on a delicate porcelain platter with a side of whipped cream in a separate dish. Lemon bars can be plated with a drizzle of raspberry sauce or adorned with thin slices of lemon for extra flair. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal event, lemon bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a vibrant pop of color and flavor.

Ingredients

12 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (170g)
3 cups all-purpose flour, divided (360g) – 2 1/2 cups for the crust, 1/2 cup for the filling
2/3 cups powdered sugar (66g), plus extra for dusting
1/2 tsp salt
3 tbsp lemon zest (zest of 3 lemons)
3 cups granulated sugar (600g)
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (240mL)
8 large eggs, room temperature

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter, blending until everything is well incorporated. For those using a stand mixer, a paddle attachment can simplify this process. If desired, a small splash of vanilla extract can be added at this stage to enhance the flavor.

Transfer the dough mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it down evenly to form a smooth layer. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust turns a light golden hue.

While the crust bakes, place the granulated sugar and lemon zest in a food processor. Pulse until the zest is finely mixed into the sugar, giving it a pale yellow color. If you don’t have a processor, finely mince the zest and blend it with the sugar in a bowl or resealable bag.

In a separate large bowl, combine the zested sugar with the remaining half cup of flour. Stir until well mixed. Gradually pour in the fresh lemon juice, and then crack in the eggs. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and homogeneous.

Once the crust has finished baking, carefully pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for around 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even baking. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

After removing the lemon bars from the oven, let them cool at room temperature for one hour. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours.

Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife, rinsing it in warm water and wiping it between each slice.