Description

Lemon bars are a buttery shortbread crust topped with a zesty, citrusy lemon filling. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a homemade treat. Easily made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

– ¾ cup powdered sugar

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (substitute plant-based butter for vegan diets)

– 3 cups all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour if needed)

– ½ tsp salt

– 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

– 2 tbsp lemon zest

– 2½ cups granulated sugar

– 6 large eggs, room temperature (substitute flax eggs for vegan diets)

– 1 cup fresh lemon juice (substitute bottled lemon juice if necessary)

– Pinch of salt

– ½ cup all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour if needed)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 ceramic baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the sides to hang over for easy removal.
In a large bowl, beat powdered sugar and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in flour, about 1 cup at a time, then add salt and vanilla extract. The mixture should be dry and crumbly but stick together when pressed.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form a thick crust.
Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
While the crust bakes, rub lemon zest into granulated sugar until fragrant. Add eggs and whisk until combined. Slowly pour in lemon juice while beating until thoroughly mixed. Add salt and flour, whisking until smooth.
When the crust comes out of the oven, use a fork to poke holes in it without going all the way through. Carefully pour the lemon filling over the warm crust and bake for 24–26 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly.
Let the bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into 2-inch squares.

Notes

– Use fresh lemons for maximum zest and juice flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.

– Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze slices for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert / Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American / Citrus Treats

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: ~250
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 50mg