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A platter of golden lemon bars with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Quick way to grow Lemon Bars

These lemon bars are a delightful balance of sweet and tangy, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a vibrant, zesty lemon filling. They are quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
For the Lemon Filling
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • for dusting powdered sugar

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • parchment paper
  • medium bowl
  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • wire rack

Method
 

Make the Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar, then cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm crust, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Prepare the Lemon Filling
  1. While the crust is baking, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs in a large bowl until smooth.
  2. Gradually whisk in the fresh lemon juice, flour, and lemon zest until the filling is well combined and lump-free.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Pour the lemon filling evenly over the warm, baked crust.
  2. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and edges are lightly browned.
  3. Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.
Serve
  1. Once cooled, cut the lemon bars into squares and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For an extra tangy kick, increase the lemon zest to 2 tablespoons. These lemon bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.