Description
Zesty lemon bars dance with buttery shortbread in this classic dessert that balances tangy citrus and sweet comfort. Silky smooth filling nestles on a crisp golden crust, promising a delightful slice of sunshine you’ll crave with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Crust Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 pinch of salt
Lemon Filling Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking.
- Create the shortbread crust by blending butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt until a cohesive dough forms, then firmly press the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Roast the shortbread crust in a preheated 350F (175C) oven for 18-20 minutes, watching for a delicate golden hue.
- Craft the lemon filling by whisking granulated sugar and flour, then incorporating eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and fragrant zest until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
- Gently cascade the lemony mixture over the baked crust, returning the pan to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling sets and becomes slightly firm.
- Allow the baked dessert to cool completely at room temperature, ensuring a stable structure for cutting.
- Slice into elegant squares and optionally dust with a light veil of powdered sugar just before serving to enhance visual appeal and add a touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Chill the butter before mixing to achieve a crumbly, tender shortbread crust that melts in your mouth.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, vibrant citrus flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
- For a gluten-free version, swap regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Allow bars to cool completely at room temperature to ensure clean, precise cuts and prevent a runny filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 268
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 36 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 77 mg