Description
These lemon bars feature a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, sweet filling that is foolproof for beginners. They are easy to make, improve with chilling, and offer the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from 3–4 medium lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and lightly grease.
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup flour, and salt. Mix until it resembles coarse sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Blind bake the crust for 15-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.
- While the crust cools, whisk granulated sugar and 1/3 cup flour in a large bowl to prevent lumps.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in lemon juice and zest until smooth and pale.
- Pour the filling over the warm crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to set.
- Lift bars out using parchment overhang, cut into squares, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemons for best flavor; bottled juice tastes metallic. Room temperature eggs help prevent curdling. The bars must be chilled completely to cut cleanly. Do not freeze as the texture may become soggy. For clean cuts, dip knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Protein: 2
Keywords: lemon bars, shortbread crust, beginner baking, easy dessert, citrus bars, make-ahead dessert