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lemon bars recipe recipe

Best Lemon Bars

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
This lemon bars recipe features a soft crust and a tangy lemon filling, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking pan greased
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Mixing bowls

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter cubed and cold
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Lemon Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and set it aside.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and set aside.

Lemon Filling

  • In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and flour. Add eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  • Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust. Spread evenly with a spatula if necessary.
  • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is set.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

Serving

  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic touch.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Chill the bars before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
How to Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the crust a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Keyword easy lemon bars, lemon bars, tangy lemon desserts