Embrace the tangy sweetness of citrus with these Easy Lemon Bars. A harmonious blend of tart lemon filling and buttery shortbread crust, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a refreshing dessert for a summer gathering or simply indulging in a sweet afternoon snack, these lemon bars are sure to brighten your day. Let’s embark on a journey to master this classic recipe and elevate your baking game!
Ingredients:
Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Lemon Filling:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth and compact layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
2. Prepare the Lemon Filling:
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and all-purpose flour until well combined.
- Add the eggs to the sugar-flour mixture, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
- Stir in lemon zest and fresh lemon juice, mixing until smooth and creamy.
3. Bake and Assemble:
- Pour the lemon filling over the pre-baked shortbread crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove the lemon bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
4. Serve and Garnish:
- Once cooled, dust the top of the lemon bars with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Slice the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife, then serve and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled juice.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet filling, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the lemon filling.
- Lemon Zest Intensity: Adjust the amount of lemon zest according to your preference for a stronger or milder lemon flavor.
- Storage Tip: Store leftover lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto:
- Crust Modification: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour in the shortbread crust to make it keto-friendly.
- Sweetener Substitute: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar in both the crust and filling.
- Portion Control: Enjoy these keto lemon bars in moderation as part of your low-carb lifestyle.
Low-Carb:
- Crust Adjustment: Opt for a low-carb baking mix or almond flour to replace the all-purpose flour in the shortbread crust.
- Sugar Reduction: Decrease the amount of granulated sugar in both the crust and filling or use a sugar-free sweetener to reduce the carb content.
- Egg White Option: Use a combination of egg yolks and egg whites or egg substitutes to lower the cholesterol content in the filling.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these lemon bars ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare these lemon bars in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftover lemon bars? A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled lemon bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? A: While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute if necessary. Adjust the amount to taste.
Q: Can I add a glaze to these lemon bars? A: Yes, you can drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled bars for added sweetness and presentation.
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? A: If you use salted butter, you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in both the crust and filling to avoid oversalting.
Easy Lemon Bars are a timeless dessert that never fails to impress with their vibrant citrus flavor and buttery richness. With a simple shortbread crust and luscious lemon filling, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and versatile, making it a perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Indulge in the zesty goodness of these lemon bars and delight your taste buds with every bite
