Description
Bright and Fresh Simple Lemon Bars are the kind of dessert that instantly makes a table feel lighter and happier. With a tender buttery crust and a smooth lemon layer on top, each bite has the perfect mix of sweetness and citrusy zing. They are simple enough for an everyday treat but pretty enough to serve for brunches, parties, and spring gatherings.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Mix in 2 cups all-purpose flour and the salt until a soft dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake the crust for 18 to 20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
6. While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth.
7. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest until fully combined.
8. Pour the lemon filling over the hot baked crust.
9. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the center is set.
10. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
11. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor and best overall taste.
Chill the bars fully before slicing so the filling sets cleanly.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving so it stays neat and pretty.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: lemon bars, easy lemon dessert, citrus bars, homemade lemon bars, simple lemon bars