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Classic Lemon Bars

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Classic Lemon Bars are tangy-sweet dessert squares with a buttery shortbread base and smooth lemon custard topping—ideal for summer gatherings or light treats.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
  2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
  3. In a mixing bowl, blend softened butter with flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt to form a crumbly dough.
  4. Press the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. Bake crust for 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from oven.
  6. Meanwhile, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, zest, 2/3 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  7. Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust.
  8. Return to oven and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, until filling is set but slightly jiggly at the center.
  9. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
  10. Lift bars from pan using parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar and slice into squares.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor, though bottled can be used in a pinch.
  • Chilling is essential for clean cuts and proper texture.
  • Store bars in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Optional: Add raspberry swirl, lavender, or swap lemon for lime for variations.
  • To get clean slices, use a hot, dry knife between cuts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/classic-lemon-bars/