Description
This easy lemon bars recipe delivers a rich, buttery crust topped with a tangy, creamy lemon filling. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, these irresistible lemon bars are perfect for any occasion. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for the ultimate citrusy treat!
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Lemon Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Topping (Optional):
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press dough evenly into the pan and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Make the Lemon Filling:
4. Whisk together sugar, flour, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Bake & Cool:
6. Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the filling is just set.
7. Let the bars cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Slice & Serve:
8. Cut into squares and enjoy! Best served chilled.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for smoother mixing.
- Always zest lemons before juicing.
- For extra firm filling, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American