Introduction
Lemon bars are the perfect blend of tart and sweet, ideal for those moments when you crave something refreshing yet indulgent. With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, zingy lemon filling, each bite of these treats is like a burst of sunshine. This ultimate lemon bar recipe promises to elevate your dessert game, making it an unforgettable addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat, these lemon bars are sure to impress!
Ingredient List
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2-3 hours (including cooling)
Servings
This recipe yields 12-16 squares, depending on how large you cut them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Shortbread Crust
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
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Add the Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
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Form the Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the crust tough.
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Press into Pan: Pour the dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom using a spatula or your hands.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.
Making the Lemon Filling
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Prepare the Lemon Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
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Add Lemon Juice & Zest: Incorporate the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt into the egg mixture. Whisk until smooth.
- Incorporate Flour: Sift the flour over the mixture and fold it in gently using a spatula or wooden spoon. Ensure everything is well combined but do not over-mix.
Combining and Baking
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Pour Filling on Crust: Once the crust has finished baking, carefully remove it from the oven. Pour the lemon filling over the hot crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Cooling and Serving
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Cool Completely: Allow the lemon bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1-2 hours. For best results, refrigerate them for an hour before slicing to avoid messy cuts.
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Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once completely cool, dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation.
- Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy your zesty delights!
Tips and Suggestions
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Choose Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice. Fresh juice has a vibrant taste that is key to a great lemon bar.
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Variations: Consider experimenting with different citrus fruits! Oranges, limes, or even grapefruits can make a delightful twist on the traditional lemon bar.
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them well!
- Presentation: For an elegant touch, try garnishing each lemon bar with a sliver of lemon or a fresh mint leaf before serving.
Conclusion
These ultimate lemon bars are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful burst of sunshine that will brighten your day. With a simple preparation and heartfelt flavors, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these lemon bars are straightforward to make and will surely impress your family and friends. So grab your lemons and get ready to enjoy a zesty delight that is sure to tantalize your taste buds! Happy baking!
