Easy Lemon Bars Recipe

There’s something utterly delightful about biting into a perfectly tart and sweet lemon bar. The zesty aroma wafts through the air as you bake, and before you know it, your kitchen is filled with sunshine. These Easy Lemon Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With a buttery crust and a bright lemon filling, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself on a Tuesday, this Easy Lemon Bars Recipe is sure to impress.

The Upside of Easy Lemon Bars Recipe

Easy Lemon Bars bring together the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. These bars are not only simple to whip up, but they also require basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of buttery crust and creamy lemon topping creates a delightful dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, they can be cut into squares for easy serving, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (not melted)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons grated lemon zest
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the filling)

Equipment & Tools

• 9×13 inch baking pan – Perfect size for your lemon bars.
• Mixing bowls – You’ll need a few for mixing the crust and filling.
• Whisk – To blend your ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements make all the difference.
• Microplane or zester – For zesting lemons easily.
• Cooling rack – To cool your lemon bars before slicing.

Easy Lemon Bars Recipe Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with a little butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a soft dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it, as you want a firm base for your lemon filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the crust is baking, whisk together 6 large eggs and 3 cups of granulated sugar in a separate bowl until smooth. Add 4 tablespoons of grated lemon zest and 1 cup of fresh lemon juice to the egg mixture, whisking until everything is well combined. Finally, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and mix until there are no lumps.

Step 5: Combine and Bake Again

Once the crust is done baking, pour the lemon filling over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and has a slight jiggle in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Remove the lemon bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, dust the top with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Cut into squares and enjoy your Easy Lemon Bars!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• To reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like erythritol.
• For a dairy-free version, you can use vegan butter in place of regular unsalted butter.
• For a more intense lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the filling.

Avoid These Traps

When making Easy Lemon Bars, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the crust can lead to a tough texture, so mix just until combined.
• Using too much lemon juice can make the filling overly tart; stick to the 1 cup as instructed.
• Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the right crust texture.
• Cutting the bars too soon can lead to messy slices; allow them to cool completely.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To store your Easy Lemon Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to one week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Questions People Ask

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

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, be aware that the taste may not be as vibrant.

How can I tell when the lemon bars are done baking?

The lemon bars are done when the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add fruit to the lemon bars?

Absolutely! You can fold in small amounts of blueberries or raspberries into the filling for a fruity twist!

What should I do if my lemon bars are too tart?

If they turn out too tart for your taste, you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream to balance the flavors.

That’s a Wrap

The journey to creating the perfect Easy Lemon Bars is not just about following the recipe; it’s about embracing the joy of baking. The bright flavors and buttery texture make these bars irresistible. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, they are sure to brighten your day.

The next time you need a quick and delicious dessert, remember this Easy Lemon Bars Recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, grab those lemons, and get baking! You won’t regret it!