Classic Quick Lemon Bars Recipe

These quick lemon bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a tangy lemon filling. Perfect for gatherings or a simple dessert at home, they offer a refreshing burst of citrus flavor.

The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

The Allure of Citrus Flavor

Lemon bars are celebrated for their delightful balance of tartness and sweetness. The fresh lemon juice and zest contribute a bright, zesty flavor that invigorates the palate. This classic dessert is perfect for those who appreciate a citrusy twist in their treats.

Each bite offers a burst of lemony goodness, complemented by the buttery shortbread crust. This combination creates a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and refreshing, making lemon bars a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions.

Simple Preparation Steps

Making lemon bars is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes impressive.

Start by preparing the crust, which involves mixing flour and powdered sugar with softened butter. Once pressed into the baking dish and lightly golden, the crust serves as a perfect base for the tangy lemon filling. After baking the filling until set, the final touch is a dusting of powdered sugar, adding a sweet finish to the bars.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon bars can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal. For a touch of elegance, consider plating them with additional lemon slices and mint leaves. This not only adds color but also enhances the citrus aroma, making the dessert even more enticing.

They can be enjoyed as a light dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack during the day. Pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee can elevate the experience, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Storage and Freshness

To keep lemon bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for several days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat over time. The flavors may even deepen, making each bite just as delightful as the first.

Before serving, a quick dusting of powdered sugar can refresh their appearance. This simple step ensures that they look as good as they taste, ready to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Easy Lemon Bars Recipe

This lemon bars recipe features a shortbread crust topped with a smooth lemon filling made from fresh lemon juice, sugar, and eggs. The bars are baked until set and dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. The total preparation and baking time is approximately 30 minutes, yielding about 12 bars.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
5. Add Filling to Crust: Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and return to the oven.
6. Bake Again: Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and serve.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories: 150kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 22g