Super Easy Lemon Bars
These Super Easy Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors with a buttery shortbread crust and a luscious lemon curd filling.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature) For a dairy-free version, substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup Lemon Juice (from about 2-3 lemons) Fresh lemon juice is recommended.
- 1 tbsp Lemon Zest (finely grated)
- 3 large Eggs (room temperature) For an egg-free option, consider using flax eggs.
- 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar Consider using coconut sugar or sugar substitutes for lower sugar options.
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
To Serve
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy.
- Gradually stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish evenly.
Bake the Base
- Bake the base for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden; let it cool slightly.
Make the Lemon Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and sifted flour until smooth.
Combine and Bake Together
- Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled crust in the baking dish.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
Cool and Dust
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving. Store in the fridge for up to a week. Consider variations like herbed lemon bars or berry lemon bars.