Lemon Bars Recipe: Step By Step Guide

How to Make Perfect Lemon Bars: A Zesty and Sweet Treat

Lemon bars are a classic dessert loved for their tangy lemon filling and buttery shortbread crust. These bright and cheerful squares are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the best lemon bars that will delight everyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
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 freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
Zest of 2 lemons

For Topping:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and creamy.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring the surface is smooth and compact.
Bake the crust for 20–25 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the crust is baking, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until well combined.
Add the flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Remove the lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature.
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the bars set and makes them easier to cut.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Dust the top generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for the Best Lemon Bars

Fresh Lemon Juice is Key: Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same vibrant flavor as fresh lemons.
Use Cold Butter for the Crust: This helps achieve a perfectly crumbly and buttery texture.
Don’t Overbake the Filling: The bars are ready when the filling is set but still soft; overbaking can cause the filling to crack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Refreshing: The perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet sugar.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps mean anyone can bake these!
Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your citrus cravings.

Lemon bars are a timeless favorite for a reason! With their buttery crust and vibrant filling, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will yield perfect results every time. Give it a try and brighten up your dessert table!