Why Make This Recipe
Easy Lemon Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They bring a bright and refreshing flavor that can soothe your sweet tooth with a zesty twist. The combination of a buttery crust and a tangy lemon filling makes these bars irresistible. Whether you are hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or just want a homemade snack, Easy Lemon Bars are simple to prepare and are sure to please everyone.
How to Make Easy Lemon Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the 2 cups of flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until a soft dough forms.
- Press this dough into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder.
- Pour this mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into bars.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Bars
Easy Lemon Bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. You can serve them plain with a dusting of powdered sugar on top, or pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves.
How to Store Easy Lemon Bars
To store Easy Lemon Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Easy Lemon Bars
- Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest will give the best flavor, so try not to use bottled lemon juice.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar for the filling if you like it sweeter or tangier.
Variation
You can add a twist to your Easy Lemon Bars by incorporating a layer of raspberry or blueberry jam on top of the crust before adding the lemon filling. This adds a fruity layer that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
FAQs
Q: Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?
A: Yes, you can use lemon extract, but it’s best to stick with fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. If you do use extract, reduce the quantity to about 1 teaspoon.
Q: How do I know when the lemon bars are done?
A: The lemon filling should be set and slightly jiggly in the middle. The edges should be lightly golden brown.
Q: Can I make lemon bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Lemon bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They are often even better the next day when the flavors have melded together.
Easy Lemon Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the 2 cups of flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until a soft dough forms.
- Press this dough into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder.
- Pour this mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into bars.