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Lemon Bars

This traditional American dessert is beloved for its tangy-sweet flavor and contrasting textures. A buttery shortbread base provides a sturdy foundation for the silky, vibrant lemon custard filling. The origin of the recipe is somewhat uncertain but it likely emerged in the mid-20th century.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

  • Crust Ingredients:

    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

    Filling Ingredients:

    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 cup fresh lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Make Crust: Combine flour, sugar, salt. Mix in melted butter until crumbly. Press into the pan and bake for 20-22 minutes, until lightly golden.
  3. Make Filling: Whisk sugar and flour. Add eggs and whisk until combined. Gradually whisk in lemon juice and zest.
  4. Bake: Pour filling over the crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the filling is set.
  5. Cool & Cut: Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Lift out, slice into bars, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overbake the filling.
  • Chill for the cleanest cuts.
  • Author: Juana M. Benedict
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes (20-22 mins for crust pre-bake, 20-25 mins for filling)
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
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