Description
These Luscious Lemon Bars are the ultimate citrusy dessert, featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich, tangy lemon filling. With just a handful of simple ingredients, they’re perfect for potlucks, tea parties, or a sweet treat anytime. Dust them with powdered sugar for a classic touch!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
For the Lemon Topping:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving overhang for easy removal. Grease with nonstick spray.
- In a food processor, pulse flour, cornstarch, salt, and confectioners’ sugar to combine. Add cold butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. (Alternatively, use a pastry cutter or fork to blend.)
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the prepared pan, building up a slight edge around the sides. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until lightly golden.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs until combined. Add sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour, whisking until completely smooth.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the filling is set and firm.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack. Use the foil overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Carefully peel away the foil and cut into squares or triangles.
- Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Notes
- Citrus Twist: Substitute lime or orange juice for part of the lemon juice.
- Berry Swirl: Add raspberry or blueberry puree to the filling for a fruity swirl.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
- Extra Tangy: Add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest for an even bolder lemon flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
