Lemon Bars Recipe

I have to tell you about the time I made lemon bars for the first time and it was a bit messy because the crust was sticking to my fingers but even with that little hiccup it turned out amazing and everyone loved it so I decided to make the lemon bars again next weekend and this time I got the crust just right which made me so proud so I kept thinking how fun and easy this recipe really is and I knew I had to share it with you.

Sometimes when I make these lemon bars I accidentally squeeze too much lemon juice so it’s extra tangy but honestly that’s not a bad thing because the flavor pops and it reminds me of my mom making desserts when I was little and even though the kitchen was a mess we always ended up laughing together and enjoying something sweet so making these lemon bars feels like bringing back a little happy memory every single time I bake them.

I remember one afternoon I was in a hurry to get the lemon bars in the oven and I forgot to preheat it so they baked a bit unevenly and I felt frustrated at first but after they cooled down I cut them into squares and they were still delicious and buttery and tangy and it made me realize sometimes little mistakes make the baking even more fun and you get to enjoy it more because it’s real and homemade.

I’ve tried eating these lemon bars with all sorts of treats and drinks and it’s so much fun I especially love having them with fresh strawberries or a slice of angel food cake or some whipped cream or a cup of hot tea or iced coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even alongside my chocolate chip cookies and once I even paired them with my homemade carrot cake and it was surprisingly good and everything tasted delicious together.

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour – 1 cup
• Powdered sugar – 1/2 cup
• Butter, softened – 1/2 cup
• Granulated sugar – 1 cup
• Eggs – 2 large
• Fresh lemon juice – 1/4 cup
• Lemon zest – 2 teaspoons
• Baking powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking pan (8×8 inches recommended)
• Mixing bowls (small and large)
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for lemon zest)
• Knife (for cutting lemons)
• Oven
• Cooling rack
• Sifter (for powdered sugar, optional)

How To Make Lemon Bars?

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so your lemon bars cook evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a large mixing bowl, mix all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Add the softened butter and use your fingers or a spatula to mix until it looks like sand. Press this mixture into the bottom of your baking pan. Make it smooth and even so your lemon bars bake evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until it is light golden brown. This will make the bottom of your lemon bars firm and tasty.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Filling

While the crust is baking, grab a small bowl. Mix granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt together. Whisk until everything is smooth and creamy. The mixture should be bright yellow and smell very lemony.

Step 5: Pour Filling over Crust

When the crust is done baking, carefully take it out of the oven. Pour the lemon filling evenly over the warm crust. Use a spatula to spread it so it reaches all the corners.

Step 6: Bake the Lemon Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The filling should be set but still soft in the middle. It will firm up more when it cools.

Step 7: Cool the Bars

After baking, let the lemon bars cool completely on a cooling rack. This can take about 1 hour. Cooling is important because cutting them while hot can make a mess.

Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top. You can use a sifter for an even layer or just sprinkle with a spoon. This makes your bars look pretty and adds extra sweetness.

Step 9: Cut into Squares

Use a sharp knife to cut the lemon bars into squares. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Place the squares on a plate and enjoy! These bars are sweet, tangy, and soft with a buttery crust. Perfect for snack time or dessert.

Storage Options

You can store lemon bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They stay soft and tangy. If you want, you can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before eating. Make sure the container is sealed so they do not pick up other fridge smells.

Some Variations

You can add a little twist to your lemon bars. Try mixing lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor. You can sprinkle some coconut flakes on top for a tropical taste. Some people like to add a few drops of vanilla extract to the filling to make it richer. Another idea is to put a thin layer of raspberry jam between the crust and lemon filling for a fruity surprise. You can also add a little poppy seeds for extra texture. Each variation changes the taste slightly but keeps the lemony freshness.

FAQ

What is this recipe made of?

This recipe is made of a buttery crust at the bottom and a sweet, tangy lemon filling on top. The crust is made from flour, butter, and powdered sugar. The filling is made from eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, a little baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

What does it taste like?

Lemon bars are sweet and sour at the same time. The top filling is tart and bright from lemon juice and zest, while the crust is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet. The combination makes each bite tangy and rich.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, you can, but fresh lemon juice gives a stronger, fresher flavor. Bottled juice might make the taste a little less bright.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust a day before and refrigerate it. Bake it right before adding the lemon filling for the freshest bars.

How do I know when the filling is ready?

The filling should jiggle slightly in the center when you shake the pan gently. It will firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking or it might crack.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be a little different, but the taste will stay delicious.

Can I add more sugar?

You can add a little more sugar if you like very sweet bars, but remember the lemon juice is tart. Balancing sweetness with tartness is key.

Can I serve them warm?

Yes, you can serve warm lemon bars. They will be softer and gooier. Dust with powdered sugar right before serving for the best look.