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Homemade Lemon Bars Recipe

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3.9 from 2 reviews

This recipe for Homemade Lemon Bars features a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy, luscious lemon filling. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars are an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 4 ounces unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Lemon Filling

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the bars.
  2. Make the crust dough: In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add dry ingredients to crust: Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed just until the dough comes together. The mixture will appear crumbly initially but will form a cohesive dough that can be pressed together.
  4. Press crust into pan: Firmly press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, making sure the thickness is uniform throughout.
  5. Bake the crust: Bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until it is lightly browned. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the lemon filling.
  6. Prepare the lemon filling: In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes on medium speed.
  7. Add lemon flavor: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and grated lemon zest until fully combined and incorporated.
  8. Incorporate flour: Fold 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the lemon mixture to help thicken the filling and improve its texture.
  9. Combine filling and crust: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the pre-baked shortbread crust in the pan.
  10. Bake the assembled bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
  11. Finish and serve: Once cooled, cut the lemon bars into 9 equal squares. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a beautiful, sweet finish. These bars are best enjoyed the day they are made but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Make sure the butter is at room temperature to create a smooth crust dough.
  • Press the crust evenly for uniform thickness and baking.
  • Cooling the crust before adding the filling prevents sogginess.
  • Store lemon bars in an airtight container in the fridge if not eating immediately.
  • For a more intense lemon flavor, you can increase lemon zest slightly.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/homemade-lemon-bars-recipe/