Description
These lemon bars feature a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, creamy lemon filling, dusted with powdered sugar. Easy to make and perfect for gatherings, they strike the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 °F (163 °C).
- Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in melted butter and vanilla until just combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 18–22 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar until smooth. Add flour and whisk again until no lumps remain.
- Gently mix in the lemon juice, half and half, and lemon zest.
- Pour the filling over the hot crust (strain through a sieve if desired), and return to the oven.
- Bake for 18–22 more minutes, until the center is nearly set.
- Let cool at room temperature completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours until firm.
- Use parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan, cut into squares, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Chill thoroughly before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap individually and thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Graham cracker crust or other citrus variations (like lime or orange) can be used.
- Leave out the cornstarch if preferred; it’s optional for texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
