Luscious Lemon Bars Recipe

Do you love tangy, sweet, and buttery desserts? If yes, then you should definitely try making luscious lemon bars at home. These lemon bars are perfect for any occasion, from a casual tea party to a fancy dinner. They are easy to make and require only a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the filling:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges of the crust are golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, in a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
5. When the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the lemon filling over it.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown.
7. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

Variations

• For a vegan version of this recipe, you can use vegan butter instead of regular butter and flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
• You can also make lime bars by substituting lime juice and zest for the lemon juice and zest.
• If you want to add a twist to this classic recipe, you can mix in some berries or chopped nuts into the lemon filling before baking.
• For a gluten-free version of this recipe, you can use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.

These luscious lemon bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. You can serve them as they are, or dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. They are also great for sharing with family and friends, or for bringing to potlucks and parties. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the tangy and buttery flavors of these delicious lemon bars!

FAQ

Can I make Lemon Bars in advance?

Yes, Lemon Bars can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I know when the Lemon Bars are done?

The edges of the Lemon Bars should be golden brown and the filling should be set. You can also do the “jiggle test” by gently shaking the pan. If the filling is still liquidy, it needs more time in the oven.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Just be sure to use 100% pure lemon juice without any added sugars or flavors.

Can I freeze Lemon Bars?

Yes, Lemon Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

How do I cut Lemon Bars without them falling apart?

Let the Lemon Bars cool completely before cutting them. You can also chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make them easier to cut. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut for clean edges.

Can I add other flavors to the Lemon Bars?

Yes, you can add other flavors to the Lemon Bars such as lavender, thyme, or even a little bit of vanilla extract. Just be sure to use them sparingly so they don’t overpower the lemon flavor.

Can I use a different type of crust for the Lemon Bars?

Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust or even a shortbread crust for the Lemon Bars. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of pan for the Lemon Bars?

Yes, you can use a different type of pan such as a square or round baking pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I use less sugar in the Lemon Bars?

While you can use less sugar in the Lemon Bars, it may affect the texture and overall flavor of the dish. It is best to follow the recipe as written for the best results.

Can I use margarine instead of butter for the crust?

While you can use margarine instead of butter for the crust, it may affect the texture and overall flavor of the dish. It is best to use butter for the best results.