Description
Classic Lemon Bars are a delightful citrus dessert featuring a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a tangy and sweet lemon filling. This easy-to-make American treat is perfect for any occasion and is sure to please with its bright lemon flavor and smooth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn light golden brown.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the sugar and flour in a large bowl. Add the eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Filling to Crust: Once the crust is baked, pour the lemon filling over the warm crust evenly.
- Bake Lemon Bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Let the lemon bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up for easy slicing.
- Serve: Dust the bars with powdered sugar just before serving, if desired. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to achieve clean slices.
Notes
- For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to prevent smudging the bars.
- These lemon bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them perfect for make-ahead dessert.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
