Bright, tangy, and irresistibly sweet, these Classic Lemon Bars are a must-try dessert for any occasion. With a buttery shortbread crust and a smooth, zesty lemon filling, they’re easy to bake and perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The combination of a tender base and luscious lemon top makes every bite a delightful experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for crust)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for filling)
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter, 2 cups flour, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until crumbly. Press mixture firmly into the pan to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Meanwhile, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a separate bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the baked crust and return to oven. Bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar and cut into 16 bars.
- Serve as a refreshing treat for dessert lovers, a bright ending to dinner, or a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee.
Tips, Variations & Storage
- Swap regular sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Add a thin layer of raspberry jam between crust and filling for extra flavor.
- Use a zester to finely grate the lemon for maximum aroma.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this dessert, you might also like:
- Quick Oatmeal Bites
- Mini Cinnamon Muffins
- Fruit Tartlets
- For more lemon-inspired desserts, check BBC Good Food Lemon Recipes.
