Description
These tangy and sweet lemon bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth and zesty lemon curd filling. A perfect balance of citrus flavor and sweetness, these bars are ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday treats.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Lemon Curd Filling
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp. + 1 tsp. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tsp grated lemon zest
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Shortbread Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and butter. Mix until the dough comes together and is smooth. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Lemon Curd Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the lemon curd mixture over the partially cooled shortbread crust.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
- If you prefer a thicker crust, slightly increase the crust ingredients and press it more firmly into the pan.
- Make sure the bars are fully cooled before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American