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Classic Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust Recipe

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4.7 from 308 reviews

Classic Lemon Bars with a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a tangy and smooth lemon filling. Perfectly balanced sweetness and citrus flavor for a refreshing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shortbread Crust

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Lemon Filling

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened unsalted butter, and half of the granulated sugar until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press this dough evenly into a baking pan to form the base crust.
  2. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
  3. Make the Lemon Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, remaining sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a separate bowl until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined to create the lemon filling.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Once the crust is hot and out of the oven, carefully pour the lemon filling over it. Immediately return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lemon filling is fully set and firm to the touch.
  5. Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the lemon bars to cool to room temperature. Cooling fully helps the bars set properly for clean slicing.
  6. Serve: After cooling, cut the lemon bars into 16 squares and serve. These bars can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for proper crust texture.
  • Cooling completely before slicing is key to clean bars.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for an optional decorative touch before serving.

Keywords: lemon bars, shortbread crust, lemon dessert, citrus bars, baked lemon bars, classic lemon bars

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/classic-lemon-bars-with-shortbread-crust-recipe/