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Lemon Bars Recipe

Rose
This lemon bars recipe features a buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth, tangy lemon filling. Bright, sweet, and perfectly balanced, these classic citrus bars are ideal for spring gatherings, brunches, or anytime you crave a refreshing dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 bars
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • parchment paper
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly but cohesive dough forms. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
  • Bake the crust for 18–20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the center remains pale.
  • While the crust bakes, whisk together sugar and eggs until smooth. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour. Whisk until fully combined.
  • Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
  • Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the center is set and no longer jiggles excessively.
  • Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours.
  • Lift from the pan using the parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar and slice into bars before serving.

Notes

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean edges. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to prevent melting. Bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 60mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg
Keyword citrus bars, easy lemon recipe, lemon bars, lemon dessert, spring dessert
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