Name: Delicious Lemon Bars: 12 Tangy Squares to Satisfy Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 46 min
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup (90 grams) powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting; 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 2 ½ cups (475 grams) granulated sugar; 6 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup fresh lemon juice – 4 large lemons; A pinch of salt; ½ cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

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Lemon Bars have become a classic favorite for dessert lovers everywhere. These homemade lemon bars are perfectly baked with a soft, buttery shortbread crust and a sweet, tangy, creamy lemon curd filling. The balance of tart and sweet makes them irresistible, whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or enjoying them as a cozy treat at home. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful citrus dessert bars that will brighten your day!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Bars

Lemon Bars are the perfect combination of flavors and textures! Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

They feature a buttery, flaky crust that melts in your mouth.
The tangy lemon filling is refreshing and sweet, perfect for summer.
These bars are easy to make and perfect for beginners.
They can be served chilled or at room temperature, making them versatile.
Enjoy them during tea time or as a dessert after dinner.
They are a great option for potlucks and gatherings!

With their American cuisine roots, Lemon Bars are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the benefits of citrus in a tangy lemon dessert.

Ingredients for Lemon Bars

Gather these items:

¾ cup (90 grams) powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 ½ cups (475 grams) granulated sugar
6 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup fresh lemon juice – 4 large lemons
A pinch of salt
½ cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

How to Make Lemon Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 ceramic baking dish with parchment paper or generously grease the pan.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the powdered sugar and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the flour, then add the salt and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Press the mixture evenly into the baking dish to form a thick crust. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Step 4: While the crust is baking, rub the lemon zest into the sugar until fragrant. Add the eggs and whisk until combined. Slowly pour in the lemon juice while beating until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Add the pinch of salt and mix in the flour with the whisk. Ensure any large clumps are broken apart.
Step 6: When the crust comes out of the oven, poke holes in it without going all the way through.
Step 7: Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust, and bake for 24-26 minutes until the middle is slightly jiggly.
Step 8: Let the bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Step 9: Pull the bars out of the dish using the overhanging parchment paper, dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve chilled.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in your easy lemon bars recipe.
Don’t overbake; they should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Bars

Here are some delicious ideas:

Serve chilled for a refreshing treat on hot days.
Pair them with whipped cream or lemon bars with cream cheese topping for added richness.
Enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Bars

To store your Lemon Bars properly, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week. For meal prep, make these bars ahead of time and chill them overnight. To reheat, place them at room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Bars?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, particularly fresh lemon juice and zest. This enhances the flavor of your lemon squares and gives them that bright, tangy taste we all love.

Can I make Lemon Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make Lemon Bars a day in advance. Just be sure to store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Bars?

One common mistake is overbaking them. Keep an eye on the baking time, and remember that they will continue cooking a little as they cool. Follow the instructions carefully for best results.

Variations of Lemon Bars You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Gluten-Free Lemon Bars Recipe: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Lemon Bars with a Graham Cracker Crust: Use crushed graham crackers instead of shortbread for a different texture.
Delicious Variations of Lemon Bars: Add berries like raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.

Delicious Lemon Bars: 12 Tangy Squares to Satisfy Cravings - Lemon Bars - main visual representation

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our latest recipes!

Learn more about the benefits of using fresh ingredients in your baking by visiting Healthline for detailed insights.

For a delightful twist, try our Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars or Chocolate Oatmeal Bars!