The Best Lemon Bars
These are the best lemon bars ever because they are full of delicious lemon flavor, and are also super easy to make!
These are the best lemon bars ever because they are full of delicious lemon flavor, and are also super easy to make!
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- zest of 1 lemon
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 6 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons milk
- for the shortbread crust
- 1/2 cup salted butter melted
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- for the lemon filling
- Carbohydrate 5.31989563566202 g
- Cholesterol 137.621527803413 mg
- Fat 14.5420069616101 g
- Fiber 0.1811764701649 g
- Protein 4.27355192088832 g
- Saturated Fat 8.17445704247882 g
- Serving Size 1 1 bar (72g)
- Sodium 111.246099142203 mg
- Sugar 5.13871916549712 g
- Trans Fat 1.47500042407054 g
- Calories 166 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 F degrees.
- Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine the crust ingredients: melted butter, flour, powdered sugar, and cornstarch. Press the shortbread mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 10 minutes and remove from oven.
- While the shortbread crust is baking, whisk together the filling ingredients: eggs, sugar, zest, lemon juice, flour, and milk.
- Pour the filling onto the baked shortbread crust and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the edges are light golden and the filling is almost set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Then cover with foil, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- When ready to serve, slice the bars into squares, and dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices if desired.
My Go-To Lemon Bars: A Recipe for Any Occasion
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. I’m constantly juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and trying to squeeze in a little “me time” – which often involves a delicious treat! That's why I’ve perfected this recipe for the best lemon bars. They’re not only incredibly delicious, bursting with zesty lemon flavor, but they're also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and cleanup. It’s the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight, a weekend brunch, or even a last-minute dessert for unexpected guests. The tangy sweetness of the lemon filling perfectly complements the buttery, crumbly shortbread crust; it's a match made in dessert heaven!
Honestly, the simplicity of this recipe is what makes it a winner. No complicated techniques, no obscure ingredients – just a few pantry staples and a bit of elbow grease. The most time-consuming part is the chilling period, which actually works in your favor! It allows you to prepare the bars ahead of time, freeing you from last-minute baking stress. I often make a batch on the weekend and store them in the fridge, ready to grab and go during a hectic week. The refreshing taste is such a welcome pick-me-up, and believe me, it's far more satisfying than anything from a bakery! The secret to truly exceptional lemon bars lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. A good-quality lemon will make all the difference in the taste and aroma. Don't be afraid to experiment – adding a little extra zest or using Meyer lemons for a sweeter flavor can create a unique twist.
These lemon bars are a versatile treat suitable for any occasion. They’re elegant enough for a sophisticated gathering yet simple enough for a casual get-together. I’ve served them at everything from book club meetings to children's birthday parties, and they're always a hit. The perfect balance of tart and sweet makes them appealing to a wide range of palates, making them a fool-proof dessert for anyone who loves a good lemon treat. So, next time you’re craving a delicious and easy dessert, look no further than this fool-proof recipe. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a batch of these delightful lemon bars, and your taste buds (and your family) will thank you for it! It's the kind of recipe that brings a little sunshine to even the cloudiest of days, and a smile to everyone who takes a bite.
Beyond the Recipe: Lemon Bars as a Lifestyle Choice
For me, baking these lemon bars isn't just about making a delicious dessert; it's about creating a moment of peace and calm amidst the chaos of daily life. The rhythmic act of measuring, mixing, and baking is a form of mindfulness, a chance to disconnect from the constant demands and simply focus on the task at hand. It’s a small ritual, a little slice of happiness that I carve out for myself, and it’s amazing how much joy it brings. Sharing those bars with loved ones amplifies that joy; it's a gesture of care and connection, a way of showing that I appreciate them.
And speaking of sharing, these lemon bars are perfect for sharing! Bring a batch to a potluck, share them with neighbors, or simply enjoy them with your family. They're a wonderful way to connect with others and spread a little sunshine. This recipe is not just a recipe; it's a symbol of care and connection.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh lemons: The quality of your lemons significantly impacts the flavor of your lemon bars. Look for plump, fragrant lemons with smooth skin.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in dry, crumbly bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the filling is set.
- Chill completely: Allowing the bars to chill completely before cutting helps them to set properly and makes them easier to slice neatly.
- Get creative with toppings: While powdered sugar is classic, you can get creative with toppings. Try fresh berries, a drizzle of glaze, or even a sprinkle of toasted nuts.
