Description
Classic Lemon Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious, tangy lemon custard. This timeless dessert offers the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a refreshing and indulgent treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare from simple pantry staples, these bars are ideal for sharing and will brighten your dessert table with a burst of zesty citrus sunshine.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch
For Finishing
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Shortbread Crust: In a bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a parchment-lined baking pan, ensuring an even layer. Chill briefly to help the crust hold its shape during baking.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-20 minutes or until it turns golden brown and emits a buttery aroma. This pre-baking step ensures a crisp base that prevents sogginess once the filling is added.
- Make the Lemon Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, eggs, granulated sugar, and flour or cornstarch until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be bright, tangy, and ready to pour over the warm crust.
- Bake with the Filling: Pour the lemon custard evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the filling is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center to maintain a creamy texture when cooled.
- Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: Remove the lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for a couple of hours to set fully. Before serving, generously sift powdered sugar over the top for a classic finish.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled juice lacks brightness.
- Do not overbake the filling; slight jiggle ensures smooth custard texture.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting to prevent crumbling and achieve clean slices.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal.
- Sift powdered sugar lightly to avoid clumps and create an even dusting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: lemon bars, classic lemon bars, lemon dessert, shortbread crust, lemon custard, citrus dessert, easy lemon bars