Lemon Square Bars Recipe

Lemon square bars, also known as lemon bars, are a popular dessert consisting of a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy and sweet lemon filling. They are often dusted with powdered sugar and cut into squares or rectangles. Here is a basic recipe for making lemon square bars:

Lemon Square Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the crust:

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

For the filling:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add 2 cups flour and salt to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
   • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and 1/4 cup flour.
   • Whisk in the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth.
   • Pour the filling over the baked crust.
4. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
   • Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
5. Serve:
   • Once completely cool, dust the top with powdered sugar.
   • Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Enjoy your homemade lemon square bars!