There’s something inherently comforting about the tangy sweetness of lemon bars, especially when paired with a buttery shortbread crust. This recipe for lemon bars has become a staple in my household, delighting family members and guests alike with its perfect balance of flavors. Whether served at a casual get-together or a formal dinner party, these lemon bars never fail to impress. The combination of zesty citrus and rich, crumbly shortbread creates a delightful symphony of textures and tastes, making it a favorite dessert in our family. Even those who aren’t usually fans of lemon desserts find themselves reaching for a second piece, proving that this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
The magic of these lemon bars lies in their simplicity, requiring only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. For the shortbread crust, you will need:
- 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, gather the following:
- 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
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, using your fingers or the back of a spoon to smooth it out. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, then stir in the lemon juice and zest. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe yields approximately 24 servings, depending on how large you cut the bars. Each serving contains about 150 calories, making it a relatively light dessert option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The balance of fat from the butter, carbohydrates from the sugar and flour, and the refreshing zing of the lemon ensures that each bite is both satisfying and indulgent.
Preparation Time
The beauty of this recipe is not only in its taste but also in its efficiency. With a total preparation and cooking time of just under an hour, it’s perfect for those who are short on time but still want to impress with a homemade dessert. The shortbread crust comes together quickly, and while it bakes, you can effortlessly prepare the lemon filling. Once baked, the bars need to cool, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for entertaining.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat, especially on warm days.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
- Top with fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for added color and flavor.
- Accompany with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.
Additional Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your lemon bars turn out perfectly every time:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be too acidic and alter the taste of the filling.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Chill before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely, and even refrigerate them for an hour before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
- Parchment paper is your friend: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper helps remove the bars effortlessly and keeps the edges neat.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar in the filling by a quarter cup without affecting the texture.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Absolutely! While the shortbread crust is traditional, you can experiment with graham cracker crusts or even a nut-based crust for a different flavor profile.
Q: How long do these lemon bars keep?
A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these lemon bars can last up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts to make this recipe gluten-free.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
A: If fresh lemons are unavailable, you can use bottled lemon juice, but keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant. Adding a bit of lemon zest can help enhance the taste.
Q: Can I add other flavors to the filling?
A: Certainly! You can experiment by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of lavender for a unique twist on the classic lemon bar.