These vibrant citrussy, sweet and tangy easy lemon bars are a perfect dessert as we head into warmer weather. They are both simple to make and absolutely delicious! Especially if you love lemony desserts. These bars have a buttery crust and a creamy lemon filling that boast of a sweet and tart balance. They are baked in one pan and can be sliced to your desired servings amount, making these lemon bars a perfect addition to a dessert table at events or parties.
Quick History of Lemon Bars
Lemon bars, also known as lemon squares, are a popular treat with a relatively short history. While lemons have been used in various cuisines throughout history, the idea of layering shortbread and lemon curd into bar form didn't come about until the 20th century. Bar cookies have been around since the 1930s, but there isn't a specific person or place credited with their origin. The first printed recipe for lemon bars can be found in a 1962 edition of the Chicago Daily Tribune.
Ingredients
For the Butter Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
For the Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.
- Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize your lemon bars:
- If you prefer a thicker crust, you can double the crust ingredients and press the dough into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the lemon filling.
- If you don't have fresh lemons on hand, you can use bottled lemon juice instead. Just make sure to adjust the amount to taste.
- If you want to add a decorative touch, you can sprinkle some additional lemon zest on top of the powdered sugar.
- For a twist on the classic lemon bars, you can experiment with different citrus fruits such as lime, orange or even grapefruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know when a lemon bar is done?
A lemon bar is done when the top is set and the center no longer jiggles.
Do lemon bars need to be refrigerated?
Yes, lemon bars should be refrigerated because they contain eggs, making them similar to custard. Store them in the refrigerator until serving.
How long do they last in the refrigerator?
Lemon bars can be stored for up to four days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze them?
Certainly, for longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze them in a freezer bag or container. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Enjoy Your Easy Lemon Bars
Now that you have the recipe and know a little bit about their origin, it's time to get baking! These easy lemon bars are perfect for any occasion or simply as a delightful treat for yourself. The combination of the buttery crust and tangy lemon filling is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy and Share!
Lemon Bars Recipe
These vibrant citrussy, sweet and tangy easy lemon bars are a perfect dessert as we head into warmer weather. They are both simple to make and absolutely delicious! Especially if you love lemony desserts.
Ingredients
For the Butter Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
For the Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the baked crust.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.
- Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 286Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 82mgSodium: 26mgCarbohydrates: 48gFiber: 0gSugar: 37gProtein: 4g
Calories are estimated and may vary.
Love Lemon? Love cookies? Make our Lemon Ricotta Cookies. We also have a sister site all about Just Baking Cookies.
