Best Lemon Bars Recipe – Easy and Delicious

Indulge in the zesty delight of the Best Lemon Bars Recipe—a classic dessert that’s as refreshing as it is delectable. This homemade treat marries a buttery crust with a tangy lemon filling, making it a favorite for weekend baking, potlucks, and dessert tables. Lemon bars are a timeless dessert that has made its way into the hearts (and tastes) of citrus lovers everywhere. Whether you’re looking for a simple recipe to impress your guests or a delightful dessert to accompany your afternoon tea, these lemon bars are the answer! The easy lemon bars recipe ensures everyone—from kitchen novices to baking connoisseurs—can create a sweet and tart masterpiece.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Bars Recipe

• • Easy Lemon Bars for Beginners: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for even first-time bakers.
  • Quick Preparation: The recipe comes together in under an hour, with minimal prep time.
  • Perfect Balance: Achieve the ideal mix of sweet and tart with a golden crust and zesty lemon topping.
  • Versatile Dessert: These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations.
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    Ingredients for Lemon Bars
    
    Gather these essential ingredients for making lemon bars to ensure the perfect dessert every time:
    
    
  • Crust:
    
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (dairy-free butter for a vegan option)
      
      
  • Filling:
    
    • 2 large eggs (replace with flax eggs for a vegan alternative)
    • 1 cup granulated sugar (coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
    • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (the heart of your lemon bars!)
    • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    • Pinch of salt
      
      For gluten-free lemon bars, swap all-purpose flour with almond flour.
      
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      How to Make Lemon Bars – Step by Step
      
      Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
      
      Step 2: Make the Crust
  • In a medium bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
  • Mix well and cut in softened butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Press this crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
  • Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
    
    Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling
  • While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
    
    Step 4: Assemble and Bake
  • Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and pour the prepared lemon filling over the hot crust.
  • Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden.
    
    Step 5: Cool and Serve
  • Remove lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan.
  • Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set completely before cutting into squares.
  • A dusting of extra powdered sugar before serving is optional but recommended for an extra touch of sweetness.
    

    

    
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    Pro Tips for Making the Best Lemon Bars
    
    
  • Can I make lemon bars ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • What is the secret to the best lemon bars? Fresh, high-quality lemons are key! The zest and juice bring a vibrant flavor that can’t be beat.
  • For a twist, add a hint of vanilla extract to the filling for a more complex flavor profile.
    
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    Best Ways to Serve Lemon Bars
    
    The best way to serve lemon bars is chilled, on an elegant platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for visual appeal. They pair excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Consider serving alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
    
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    Nutritional Information for Lemon Bars
    
    
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Carbs: 37g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 3g
    
    This dessert is a little indulgent but well worth it for an occasional treat!
    
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    Storage & Leftovers
    
    
  • How long do lemon bars last in the fridge? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Can I freeze lemon bars? Yes, freeze them layered with parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  • Best reheating methods: Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature; no reheating needed!
    
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    4 FAQs for Lemon Bars
    
    
    1. Can I freeze lemon bars?
       
       • Yes, lemon bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
         
         
    2. What can I use instead of eggs in lemon bars?
       
       • Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan option.
         
         
    3. How do you know when lemon bars are done?
       
       • The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center; it will firm up as it cools.
         
         
    4. Why did my lemon bars crack?
       
       • Overbaking can cause cracks. Ensure to remove them when slightly jiggly to prevent this.
         
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