What ingredients do I need for citrus lemon bars?

You’ll need for the shortbread crust: ½ cup melted butter, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 cup all-purpose flour. For the lemon filling: 1 cup granulated sugar, 2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 eggs, ½ cup fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons lemon zest. Powdered sugar is used for dusting on top.

Why did my lemon bars turn brown on top?

Browning typically happens due to overbaking or baking at too high of a temperature. To prevent this, bake at 325°F and check for doneness by looking for a set center with only a subtle jiggle. Cover with foil if the top is browning too quickly.

Do I need to refrigerate homemade lemon bars?

Yes, refrigerating lemon bars helps maintain their fresh taste and firm texture. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They can be enjoyed chilled or brought to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze lemon bars and for how long?

Lemon bars freeze well for up to three months. Wrap them tightly without the powdered sugar dusting. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Frozen bars often develop a creamier texture.

Citrus Lemon Bars With Buttery Shortbread Crust Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup melted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ cup lemon juice
3 eggs
2 tablespoons lemon zest
Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. For the crust, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt in a medium bowl until smooth. Add the flour and stir until the dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20-22 minutes until golden brown.
4. Remove from the oven and poke holes in the crust with a fork to aid in binding with the filling.
5. For the lemon filling, combine granulated sugar and flour in a bowl.
6. Whisk in the eggs until the mixture becomes fluffy.
7. Stir in the lemon juice and zest until combined.
8. Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake for an additional 22-26 minutes, or until set.
9. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 2 hours.
10. Once chilled, dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares to serve.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍋 Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and ensure a vibrant, tangy taste.
🥄 Sift the sugar and flour to prevent lumps in your ingredients for a smoother texture.
❄️ These bars freeze well, developing a creamy texture when served just out of the freezer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time: 46 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 180
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 70mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 37mg