5 from 1 vote

Lemon Bars

Lemon Bars are a beautiful tart classic. This luscious and tangy lemon dessert with a buttery crust is perfect for lemon lovers.

Lemon bars on a wire rack.


Classic lemon bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, making them an ideal dessert for various occasions. Whether hosting a summer picnic or craving a refreshing treat, these delightful squares are a crowd-pleaser. With their delicate balance of flavors and simple preparation process, you can easily whip up a batch of this childhood favorite to share with friends and family. 

At the heart of a fantastic lemon bar is its two essential components: the buttery shortbread base and the tangy lemon filling. The shortbread crust serves as a sturdy base, while the lemon curd adds a delightful zing. Using just a few simple ingredients and following some basic techniques, you’ll create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a fancy bakery.

These lemon squares are just what the doctor ordered. Bring some lusciously sunny lemon flavor into your life. They are quick to whip up, and each sweet bite is pure heaven. The lemon filling will melt in your mouth. If you are a Lemon Meringue Pie fan, you must try this dessert!

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    They are perfect for any occasion. I made them just because. Do I really need a reason? Nope, I don’t think so. Sometimes, you just want something sweet, and this easy lemon bars recipe is pure perfection. You can’t go wrong with this dessert, from the buttery crust to the smooth, tart lemon filling.

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    Why You’ll Love These Homemade Lemon Bars

    • Delicious flavor combination: The balance of sweet and tangy flavors in traditional lemon bars creates a taste sensation that is both refreshing and satisfying. The zesty lemon filling perfectly complements the rich, buttery crust.
    • Easy recipe to make: With just a few simple ingredients, such as lemon juice, sugar, and eggs, lemon bars can be easily prepared in a relatively short amount of time. This makes them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
    • Versatile dessert: Whether enjoying them as a midday snack or serving them as a dessert at a gathering or potluck, lemon bars are versatile and always a hit with any crowd.
    • Great for gifting: Since lemon bars are easily portioned and transportable, they make excellent gifts or treats to share with friends, family, or coworkers.

    Ingredients

    The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

    Crust:

    • All-purpose flour: This provides the structure for the crust, giving it a sturdy base for the filling.
    • Sugar: It adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the tartness of the lemon filling.
    • Salt: A little salt enhances the crust’s flavor and contrasts with the sweetness.
    • Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds all the ingredients together and contributes to a rich, buttery flavor.

    Lemon Filling:

    • Large eggs: They help to thicken the filling and give it a smooth, custard-like texture.
    • Sugar: The sugar adds sweetness and balances the acidity of the lemon juice.
    • Lemon juice: This is the star ingredient, providing the tangy, refreshing flavor that makes lemon bars so delightful.
    • All-purpose flour: Flour acts as a thickener for the filling, setting it up when baked.
    • Baking powder: This adds a bit of lift to the filling, preventing it from becoming too dense.
    • Powdered sugar: A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
    Ingredients to make lemon bars.

    How to Make Lemon Bars

    • Step One: Preheat your oven to 325°F. 
    • Step Two: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty – mix them well until everything comes together. Once you have a nice dough, press it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out, and then put it in the preheated oven to bake for 20 minutes.
    Steps to make lemon bars.
    • Step Three: You can prepare the lemon filling while baking your crust. Whisk together your eggs, sugar, lemon juice, flour, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Make sure everything is mixed thoroughly and has a smooth consistency.
    Steps to make lemon bars.
    • Step Four: Carefully pour the lemon mixture on the hot baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Put it back in the oven, and bake for 35 minutes.
    • Step Five: Remove your beautiful lemon bars from the oven and let them cool down completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. Trust me; it’s worth the wait! Feel free to sprinkle some confectioners’ sugar on top of the bars for that extra touch of deliciousness.
    Steps to make lemon bars.

    Equipment Needed

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    • 9×13-inch baking panThis size is perfect for creating those delicious lemon bars with just the right thickness. 
    • Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two of them – one for mixing the crust ingredients and another for preparing the lemon filling. Having separate bowls helps keep your workspace organized and avoids cross-contamination.
    • WhiskEssential for blending the filling ingredients, ensuring a smooth and even mixture for that perfect lemony flavor. 
    • Scraper spatulaFor spreading the crust and the filling evenly in your baking pan.
    • Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements. This ensures consistency and perfect results every time.
    • Citrus juicer: Helps you extract maximum flavor from the lemons.
    • Wire cooling rack: This allows lemon bars to cool evenly and quickly before cutting and serving.

    What to Serve with Lemon Bars

    • Fresh fruit: A colorful fruit salad or platter featuring seasonal berries, pineapple, melons, or grapes can make a perfect complement to the zesty flavor of lemon bars. Fresh fruit adds a natural sweetness and refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with the bright acidity of the lemon filling.
    • Whipped cream: Adding a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream to your lemon bar is a delightful way to balance the tartness of the lemon curd filling. Feel free to get creative and infuse your whipped cream with vanilla or other complementary flavors. Try my homemade stabilized whipped cream.
    • Sorbet or sherbet: A scoop of fruity sorbet or sherbet alongside your lemon bar can create a fun, contrasting texture. Choose flavors like raspberry, mango, or coconut to enhance the overall tasting experience.
    • Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can be an elegant garnish with a refreshing flavor. It’s a subtle touch but can elevate the presentation and introduce another layer of taste.
    • Cup of tea or coffee: Warm beverages, such as tea or coffee, can contrast the cold and tangy nature of lemon bars. Herbal or green teas with citrus notes or a cup of your favorite coffee might become a new favorite pairing.
    A stack of lemon bars on a plate.

    Variations and Substitutions

    • Crust options: Instead of a shortbread crust, you can use crushed cookies, such as shortbread or vanilla wafers, for a different texture and flavor or a graham cracker crust. Similarly, a nut-based crust like almond or pecan can add a delightful crunch.
    • Citrus alternatives: You can easily swap out the lemon juice and zest with other citrus fruits to introduce a new taste. Lime, orange, or grapefruit can provide a delicious alternative, and mixing two or more fruits can create interesting flavor combinations.
    • Add-ins: Enhance your lemon bars with added flavors, such as:
      • Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or mint. A subtle addition can complement and heighten the citrus taste.
      • Berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries, can be mixed into the filling or used as a colorful topping.
      • Desiccated coconut can be incorporated into the crust or sprinkled on top for a tropical twist.

    Storage Instructions

    Storing your lemon bars properly is essential for preserving their taste, texture, and safety. Store them in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air and keep them fresh. It’s important to refrigerate your lemon bars as the filling contains eggs, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not stored below 41 degrees F.

    Can I Freeze?

    Yes, you can freeze lemon bars! This is a great way to prolong their shelf life and enjoy them for up to three months. When appropriately packaged, frozen lemon bars will maintain their taste and texture, making them a fantastic treat for later.

    To successfully freeze your lemon bars, follow these simple steps:

    1. Let them cool completely – After baking the lemon bars, give them time. This step will prevent condensation from forming while in the freezer, which could compromise their texture.
    2. Skip the powdered sugar – Refrain from sprinkling powdered sugar on the lemon bars before you freeze them. Freezing powdered sugar can create a gummy texture. Instead, add the powdered sugar after thawing and before serving.
    3. Wrap each lemon bar – To maintain flavor and texture, wrap each lemon bar individually in plastic or aluminum foil. You could also freeze the entire pan of uncut bars.
    4. Place them in an airtight container – After wrapping the lemon bars, put them in an airtight container or resealable plastic freezer bag. This extra layer of protection will keep your lemon bars from getting freezer burn.
    5. Label and date the container – To ensure you enjoy your lemon bars within their optimal freezing period, label and date the container. This way, you’ll always know how long your lemon bars have been in the freezer. Freeze for up to 3 months.

    When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen lemon bars, remove them from the freezer, unwrap them, and let them thaw at room temperature. Sprinkle them with powdered sugar, if desired.

    Lemon bars on a platter.

    Recipe Tips and Tricks

    • Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same brightness and tang as fresh lemons. 
    • When making the crust, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the baking dish. This helps create a crisp and solid base for the lemon filling.
    • Sift the sugar and flour together to avoid lumps in your lemon filling. 
    • Whisk the lemon filling mixture vigorously to ensure everything is well combined. This ensures a smooth texture, allowing the bars to be set properly.
    • Allow the lemon bars to cool completely before cutting them. This helps them set firmly and makes for cleaner slices.

    Lemon Bars History

    Lemon bars have a fascinating history that you might not know about. While the exact origin of this delicious dessert is not well-documented, it’s believed that shortbread, the base of lemon bars, originated in Scotland as far back as the 12th century. These treats now have a special place in American cuisine and are enjoyed at various events across the nation.

    The first printed lemon bar recipe was published in the Chicago Daily Tribune on August 27, 1962. Mrs. Eleanore Mickelson submitted the recipe for a “Today’s $5 Favorite Recipe” column. Since then, lemon bars have gained popularity and become a household favorite.

    As you savor every bite of the tangy, sweet taste, remember that lemon bars have been adapted and passed down through generations. It’s impressive how a simple combination of butter, sugar, flour, and lemon can create a crowd-pleasing dessert.

    Not only are lemon bars loved across households, but they have a dedicated National Lemon Bar Day, celebrated on October 15 each year. So, enjoy your lemon bars with a newfound appreciation for their flavorful history and the pride of a well-preserved tradition.

    Lemon bars on a plate.

    FAQ

    How to Tell When Lemon Bars Are Set

    As the lemon bars bake, keep an eye on their appearance. The filling should become just firm enough to hold its shape but still have a slight jiggle when the pan is gently shaken. If the top has turned a light golden brown, that’s another sign that they are nearly ready.
    Don’t fret if there’s still some jiggle in the center when you take the lemon bars out. They will continue to set as they cool. To help with this process, let your lemon bars cool at room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator to chill.
    Texturally, your lemon bars should have a smooth, almost custard-like filling on top of a slightly firm, buttery, shortbread crust. Once chilled, the lemon bars should be easy to cut into squares, revealing a beautiful, even layer of filling on the crust.

    How to Cut Lemon Bars Clean

    Before cutting your lemon bars, make sure they have been chilled completely. This improves the texture and decreases the chances of crumbling or sticking. Remove the bars from the refrigerator and let them sit for a moment to soften for easier cutting slightly.
    Using a sharp chef’s knife, dampen the blade with warm water. This will help it glide through the lemon bars, giving you cleaner edges. Clean the knife and rewet it after each cut to ensure consistent results.
    To make even squares, measure your lemon bar slab with a ruler and lightly score the ends to mark where your cuts will be. 
    Remember to take your time and use a steady hand. With some practice, your lemon bars will be clean-cut and visually appealing, ready to impress at any event or gathering.

    What are the Brown Spots on Top?

    A possible reason for brown spots on the top of your lemon bars could be how the mixture is prepared. The foamy, cakey layer often seen on lemon bars results from the air bubbles from the eggs rising to the surface during baking. These air bubbles can cause a thin crust to form on top, which can look like brown spots. According to Leonelli Bakery, the crust is essential as it helps prevent the filling from leaking.
    Sometimes, the appearance of brown spots on the top of your lemon bars might also be due to the baking process itself. An over-baked lemon bar can develop a darker crust, which might appear as brown spots. To avoid this, make sure you are carefully monitoring your baking time and temperature according to the recipe you are using.

    A lemon bar on a plate with a bite out of it.

    Lemon Desserts

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    5 from 1 vote

    Lemon Bars

    Created by Stacie Vaughan
    Servings 12
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 50 minutes
    Total Time 1 hour
    A beautiful tart classic. This luscious and tangy lemon dessert with a buttery crust is perfect for lemon lovers.

    Ingredients
     
     

    Crust

    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ cup sugar
    • ¼ tsp salt
    • 1 cup unsalted butter melted

    Lemon Filling

    • 6 large eggs
    • 3 cups sugar
    • ½ cup lemon juice
    • 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • powdered sugar for garnish, if desired

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 325°F.
    • Mix together flour, sugar, salt and butter to make crust. Press into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes.
    • In another bowl, stir together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, flour and baking powder. Pour lemon filling mixture on top of hot crust. Bake for 35 minutes.
    • Let cool before cutting into squares.
    • Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1square | Calories: 484kcal | Carbohydrates: 78g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 123mg | Sodium: 118mg | Potassium: 73mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 59g | Vitamin A: 592IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 2mg

    The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

    Course Desserts
    Cuisine American
    Keyword lemon bars, lemon desserts, lemon squares

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    13 Comments

    1. These Lemon Bars look amazing! They look like they are overflowing with flavor! Thank you for sharing at Celebrate It!

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