What type of crust is used for these lemon bars?

A buttery shortbread crust made from flour, powdered sugar, and cold cubed butter forms the base, providing a crisp and tender foundation.

How do I achieve a bright lemon flavor in the filling?

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and finely grated lemon zest to enhance the tangy flavor. Optional lemon extract can boost the brightness.

An 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars.

Chilling the baked bars before slicing helps create cleaner cuts. Cut into squares first, then diagonally to form triangles.

Yes, the bars contain gluten from wheat flour, dairy from butter, and eggs.

Earl Grey tea or a chilled glass of Moscato complement the bright citrus flavors nicely.

Bright, tangy lemon bars with a buttery shortbread crust, cut into elegant triangles for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

This recipe has been a favorite at family gatherings where everyone loves the refreshing lemon flavor and the crisp shortbread base.

For the Shortbread Crust: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Lemon Filling: 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons (15 g) all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup (80 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons) 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
For Finishing: Powdered sugar, for dusting

Preheat Oven:: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Prepare Crust Mixture:: In a medium bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it in with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Bake Crust:: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until lightly golden.
Make Lemon Filling:: Whisk together granulated sugar and eggs until smooth. Add flour, baking powder, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until well combined.
Add Filling and Bake:: Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust as soon as it comes out of the oven. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and just barely jiggles in the center.
Cool Bars:: Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Serve:: Use the parchment overhang to lift out the bars. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into 16 triangles by first cutting into 8 squares then cutting each square diagonally.

These lemon bars have been a sweet ending to many family dinners, bringing smiles and requests for seconds.

8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan Mixing bowls Whisk Pastry cutter or fork Parchment paper Sharp knife

Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter). If unsure about specific ingredient sources, double-check all labels for allergens.

Calories: 135 Total Fat: 6 g Carbohydrates: 19 g Protein: 1 g per serving

Enjoy these lemon bars as a perfect balance of sweet and tart for any occasion.

→ What type of crust is used for these lemon bars?: A buttery shortbread crust made from flour, powdered sugar, and cold cubed butter forms the base, providing a crisp and tender foundation.
→ How do I achieve a bright lemon flavor in the filling?: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and finely grated lemon zest to enhance the tangy flavor. Optional lemon extract can boost the brightness.
→ What baking pan size is recommended?: An 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars.
→ How can I cut clean triangles from the bars?: Chilling the baked bars before slicing helps create cleaner cuts. Cut into squares first, then diagonally to form triangles.
→ Are there common allergens in these bars?: Yes, the bars contain gluten from wheat flour, dairy from butter, and eggs.
→ What are good beverage pairings for these bars?: Earl Grey tea or a chilled glass of Moscato complement the bright citrus flavors nicely.