Classic Lemon Bars Recipe

Indulge in tangy and sweet Classic Lemon Bars with a buttery shortbread crust. Easy recipe featuring freshly squeezed lemon juice, powdered sugar and a crumbly base. Perfect dessert for spring gatherings, potlucks and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

1. 1/2 lb (16 Tbsp) unsalted butter, room temperature
2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
3. 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
4. 2 cups all-purpose flour
5. 1/4 tsp salt

For the Lemon Filling:

1. 7 large eggs, room temperature
2. 3 cups granulated sugar
3. 2 Tbsp lemon zest (from 4-5 lemons)
4. 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 5 large or 8 medium lemons)
5. 1 cup all-purpose flour
6. Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat: Oven to 350°F. Line a 13x9x2″ baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Crust:
3. Mix butter, sugar, vanilla, flour and salt in a stand mixer.
4. Spread dough evenly in the prepared pan.
5. Bake 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Cool slightly.
7. Filling:
8. Whisk eggs, sugar, lemon zest and juice.
9. Add flour; whisk smooth.
10. Bake:
11. Pour filling over warm crust.
12. Bake 30-35 minutes or until set.
13. Cool in pan 1 hour; refrigerate 2 hours.
14. Serve:
15. Loosen with parchment paper.
16. Transfer to cutting board.
17. Cut into 18-20 squares.
18. Dust with powdered sugar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tart and sweet balance: Perfect blend of lemon and sugar.
2. Buttery shortbread crust: Crumbly and delicious.
3. Easy to make: Simple instructions.
4. Impressive dessert: Perfect for gatherings.

Tips

1. Use room temperature ingredients: Ensures smooth mixing.
2. Don’t overbake: Filling should be slightly jiggly.
3. Dust with powdered sugar: Adds elegance.
4. Refrigerate before serving: Sets filling.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Lemon variations: Use Meyer lemons or add lemon extract.
2. Glaze: Top with powdered sugar glaze.
3. Nuts: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to crust.
4. Flavor combinations: Mix in raspberry or blueberry jam.

FAQs

1. Why is my crust crumbly?: Overmixing or incorrect butter temperature.
2. Can I use bottled lemon juice?: Freshly squeezed recommended.
3. How long do lemon bars last?: Refrigerate up to 5 days.

Serving and Suggestions

1. Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving.
2. Serve chilled: Optimal flavor and texture.
3. Cut into squares or bars: Versatile serving options.
4. Perfect for: Spring gatherings, potlucks or desserts.