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Lemon Bars

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Lemon Bars are a classic dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth, tangy lemon filling and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Their perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors makes them ideal for holidays, picnics, bake sales, and everyday treats.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (for crust)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for crust)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling)
  • Powdered sugar, for garnish
  • Lemon slices or additional lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, softened butter, and vanilla extract if using until a crumbly dough forms.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  4. Bake the crust for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
  5. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
  6. Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust immediately after removing it from the oven.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
  8. Cool the lemon bars completely at room temperature.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
  10. Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.

Notes

  • Fresh lemon juice provides the brightest flavor, though bottled juice can be used if needed.
  • Chill the bars before slicing for clean, neat squares.
  • Add orange or lime zest for a citrus variation.
  • Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Dust with powdered sugar immediately before serving to keep the topping looking fresh.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/lemon-bars/