Homemade Lemon Bars

 

Ingredients:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Prepare the Shortbread Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
• Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Make the Lemon Filling and Bake:

• In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
• Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth.
• Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust.
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
• Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Finish and Serve:

• Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar.
• Slice the lemon bars into squares or rectangles.
• Enjoy these homemade lemon bars with their tangy, citrusy flavor—a perfect balance of sweet and zesty!

Revel in these delightful homemade lemon bars, perfect for dessert or a sweet treat any time of day! Adjust the amount of powdered sugar for dusting based on your preference for sweetness.