Classic Tangy Lemon Bars (Print)
Buttery shortbread meets tangy lemon filling in these classic bars. Easy, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.
# Ingredient List:
→ Shortbread Crust
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Lemon Filling
05 - 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 4 large eggs
08 - 2/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon zest
→ Topping
10 - Powdered sugar for dusting
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 cups flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt, mixing just until the dough forms.
03 - Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
04 - While the crust bakes, whisk together 1 and 1/2 cups sugar and 1/4 cup flour in a medium bowl. Add eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking until well combined.
05 - Pour the lemon mixture over the hot crust immediately after removing it from the oven.
06 - Bake for another 18-20 minutes, or until the filling is just set in the center.
07 - Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan. Once cool, lift out using the parchment handles and slice into 16 bars.
08 - Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The buttery crust practically melts against the vibrant, custard-like lemon layer
- These bars travel beautifully and actually taste better after chilling overnight
- You probably have everything you need in the pantry right now
02 -
- Pouring the filling onto the hot crust is the secret to preventing soggy bottoms
- The center should still have a slight wobble when you remove it from the oven
- Room temperature eggs prevent the filling from seizing up when you add the juice
03 -
- Use a ruler to mark your cuts before slicing for perfectly even bars
- Dust with powdered sugar through a fine mesh strainer for the lightest coating