Lemon Bars

Buttery shortbread crust, tangy lemon filling, powdered sugar snow. Perfect.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 45 min Makes: 16 bars

Ingredients

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  • For the crust
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • For the filling
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

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  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  2. Make the crust: Beat butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add flour and salt, mix until crumbly. Press evenly into pan.
  3. Bake crust until edges are light golden. Don't overbake—it continues cooking with the filling.
  4. Make the filling: Whisk eggs and sugar until smooth. Add flour, lemon juice, and zest. Whisk until combined.
  5. Pour filling over hot crust. Return to oven and bake until filling is set and no longer jiggles.
  6. Cool completely in pan. Refrigerate at least 2 hours.
  7. Lift out using parchment. Dust generously with powdered sugar. Cut into bars.

Notes

  • Fresh lemons only: Bottled juice doesn't compare. You need that bright, fresh flavor.
  • Hot crust: Pour filling onto hot crust to help it set properly.
  • Clean cuts: Wipe knife between cuts. Use a thin, sharp blade.
  • Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
  • Room temp: Let sit 10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Adapted from Sally's Baking Addiction