Name: The BEST Lemon Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 4 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (for crust); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for crust); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for crust); 1/4 teaspoon salt (for crust); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for crust); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for crust); 2 cups granulated sugar (for filling); 4 large eggs (for filling); 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for filling); 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (for filling); 1/4 cup half and half, heavy cream, or whole milk (for filling); 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for filling); Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional garnish)

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I’m excited to share my take on the BEST Lemon Bars. These classic treats feature a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust topped with a bright, creamy, and tangy lemon filling. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart. I love making these for gatherings, potlucks, or simply when I crave a refreshing dessert. The Best Lemon Bars Recipe

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love these lemon bars because:

The shortbread crust is tender, buttery, and easy to make.
The lemon filling is creamy, tangy, and vibrant.
They’re simple and fuss-free with guaranteed delicious results.
Perfect for make-ahead and great for serving a crowd.
They taste even better chilled the next day.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortbread Crust

all purpose flour
powdered sugar
cornstarch (optional)
salt
unsalted butter, melted
vanilla extract

For the Lemon Filling

granulated sugar
large eggs
all purpose flour
freshly squeezed lemon juice
half and half (or heavy cream or whole milk)
lemon zest

For Garnishing

powdered sugar (optional)

directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add melted butter and vanilla and stir until just combined.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
Stir in the lemon juice, half and half, and lemon zest until well blended.
Pour the filling over the hot crust (strain through a fine mesh sieve if desired).
Bake for about 22 to 28 minutes or until the center is almost set.
Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Once chilled, lift from the pan using parchment overhang, slice into squares, and dust with powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 40–50 minutes total
Chill time: 4 hours

Variations

Use lime or orange juice and zest for a citrus twist.
Skip the cornstarch if you prefer a firmer crust.
Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the crust for subtle warmth.
Try using a graham cracker crust for a different texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They last up to 4–5 days and actually taste even better the next day.

To freeze, I let the bars cool completely, then wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. I just thaw them in the fridge and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

FAQs

How long do lemon bars last?

I keep them in the refrigerator, and they stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze lemon bars?

Yes, I freeze them individually wrapped. They thaw beautifully in the fridge.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Yes, I always refrigerate them for best texture and flavor. They’re great served cold.

Can I make these gluten-free?

I haven’t tried it yet, but a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute should work well.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

I’ve skipped the cornstarch before, and the crust still turned out delicious—just slightly less tender.

Conclusion

These lemon bars are one of my favorite desserts to make and share. The combination of a buttery crust and vibrant lemon filling is irresistible. Whether I serve them chilled at a summer gathering or save a few for myself in the freezer, they never fail to satisfy. This is one recipe I’ll be coming back to again and again.

The Best Lemon Bars Recipe

Why I’ll Love This Recipe