Description
This Perfect Lemon Bars recipe features a crisp, buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy and creamy lemon filling. Easy to prepare and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these bars make a delightful dessert or snack that can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Crust
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 1/2 cups plus 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
Lemon Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons)
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 3 to 4 large lemons)
- 1/3 cup milk
- Additional confectioners’ sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13 inch pan and set it aside to prepare for the crust.
- Prepare Shortbread Crust: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar together until smooth and well combined. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of flour and continue mixing until the dough forms.
- Bake Crust: Press the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the greased 9×13 inch pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.
- Make Lemon Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, grated lemon zest, lemon juice, milk, and the remaining 3 tablespoons of flour in a small bowl until the mixture is frothy and smooth.
- Pour Filling & Bake: Once the crust is hot and golden, carefully pour the lemon filling over it. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and set.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the lemon bars from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with additional confectioners’ sugar. Cut into 12 bars and refrigerate leftovers for freshness.
Notes
- Make sure to press the crust firmly and evenly to create a sturdy base for the lemon filling.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best bright and fresh flavor.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar to prevent it from melting.
- Refrigerate leftover bars to keep them fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- You can line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleanup.
