Description
This Easy Lemon Bars recipe features a tender, buttery crust topped with a vibrant, tangy lemon filling. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars are ideal for a refreshing dessert or snack. With a simple preparation and straightforward baking technique, these lemon bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks, cubed)
For the Lemon Filling
- 2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (4-5 large lemons)
- 4 large eggs
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil and butter it to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, powdered sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry blender or food processor to blend until pea-sized crumbles form. Firmly press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides (about 1/2 inch) of the prepared baking dish, ensuring no cracks. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
- Prepare the filling: While the crust bakes, whisk granulated sugar, flour, and salt together in a large bowl. Gradually add lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, eggs, egg yolks, heavy cream, and vanilla extract (if using), whisking vigorously until smooth and slightly foamy.
- Bake the filling: Pour the lemon mixture over the hot baked crust. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
- Cool and chill: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the lemon bars to cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then place the bars uncovered in the refrigerator to chill for 2-3 hours, which helps the filling fully set.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with additional powdered sugar. Cut into 12 uniform bars and enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and brightness in the filling.
- Be sure to press the crust evenly to avoid cracks and ensure it holds the filling well.
- Chilling the bars before cutting helps achieve clean slices without crumbling.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
