Lemon Bars – The Perfect Sweet & Tart Treat!

These classic lemon bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious, tangy lemon custard and a dusting of powdered sugar. Bright, refreshing, and irresistibly delicious, they’re the perfect dessert for spring, summer, or anytime you crave a citrusy treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Balance – Sweet crust meets zesty lemon filling
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, foolproof method
Crowd-Pleasing – Always disappears fast at parties
Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better chilled

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

For Dusting:

  • Powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a food processor (or bowl), mix flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add cold butter and pulse (or cut in with a pastry cutter) until crumbly.
  4. Press evenly into the pan. Bake 18-20 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Whisk eggs and sugar until smooth.
  2. Add lemon juice, zest, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Bake & Chill

  1. Pour filling over the hot crust.
  2. Bake 20-25 minutes until set (edges should be lightly browned).
  3. Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

  1. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.

Tips for the Best Lemon Bars

🔹 Fresh Lemons – Bottled juice won’t give the same bright flavor.
🔹 Clean Cuts – Use a hot, wet knife for neat slices.
🔹 Extra Zing? Add ½ tsp vanilla extract to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish with berries or whipped cream.
  • Pair with iced tea or coffee for a refreshing treat.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Bars are sunshine in dessert form—tart, sweet, and impossible to resist. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a little pick-me-up!

Brighten your day with every bite! 🍋✨

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