Lemon Bars: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Lemon bars are a classic dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy flavors. With a buttery shortbread crust and a luscious lemon filling, these bars are a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you are making them for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create the most delicious lemon bars.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Bars

• Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and lemons.
• Easy to Make: A straightforward process that even beginners can master.
• Perfect Balance: The tartness of the lemon filling complements the buttery crust.
• Great for Any Occasion: A versatile dessert that works for picnics, parties, and everyday treats.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour until well combined.
2. Add fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until smooth.
3. Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
3. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
4. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for the Best Lemon Bars

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a big difference in flavor.
• Chill Before Cutting: This helps the bars firm up and makes slicing easier.
• Line the Baking Dish: Using parchment paper allows for easy removal and clean-up.
• Even Crust Thickness: Press the crust evenly to ensure uniform baking.

FAQs About Lemon Bars

1. How do I store lemon bars?

Lemon bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

2. Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?

Yes! Lemon bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better after chilling overnight.

3. Why did my lemon bars turn out runny?

If your lemon filling is runny, it may not have been baked long enough. Make sure the filling is set before removing from the oven.

4. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and brightness to the bars.

5. How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut for neat, professional-looking squares.

Conclusion

Lemon bars are a timeless treat that combines a buttery crust with a zesty, sweet filling. Their vibrant citrus flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade delight, this lemon bar recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy the perfect balance of tart and sweet in every bite!