These lemon bars are a tasty treat that brighten your day! With a buttery crust and a zesty lemon filling, they are perfect for any dessert lover.
I can’t resist their sweet and tangy flavor, and they really do melt in your mouth! They’re super easy to whip up, making them a go-to for last-minute gatherings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is key for a rich crust. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or vegan butter instead. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar gives sweetness to both the crust and the filling. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar, but it may alter the color slightly.
Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring brightness to the bars. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh always tastes better!
Eggs: They help set the lemon filling. For a vegan alternative, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or silken tofu blended until smooth.
What’s the Trick to Getting the Filling Just Right?
Getting the perfect lemon filling is essential for a great lemon bar. Here’s how to do it:
- Whisk the eggs well before adding the other ingredients. This ensures a light and airy filling.
- Mix the lemon juice and zest gently to avoid incorporating too much air. You want a smooth mixture.
- Make sure to bake the filling until it’s set, but not overcooked. Check for jiggling; it should be just slightly set in the middle when you take it out.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for clean edges. Enjoy the zingy flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Easy Zesty Lemon Bars That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 15 minutes for preparation and around 40-45 minutes for baking. You’ll need some time to cool the bars before cutting, so plan for about 1 hour of cooling time. In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours from start to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your 9×13-inch baking pan ready by either greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the bars later.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 cups flour, and salt. Stir until you get a crumbly dough. This should come together easily! Now, take the mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form a nice crust. It should be about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Bake the Crust:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden. Keep an eye on it and take it out when it looks just right! Let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare the Lemon Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix everything together until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps—this will help your filling turn out perfect!
5. Bake the Lemon Bars:
Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust. Spread it evenly. Now, return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes. The filling should be set and not jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
6. Finish and Cool:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This is key for cutting clean squares later. It might take about an hour to cool down.
7. Dust and Serve:
Once the lemon bars are completely cool, dust the top generously with powdered sugar. Cut them into squares and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for a few days!
Your zesty lemon bars are ready to bring a refreshing zing to your day!
FAQ for Easy Zesty Lemon Bars
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for unsalted butter in the crust. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. The bars may have a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Know When the Filling is Set?
The filling should be just set and no longer jiggly in the center. You can gently shake the pan; if it wobbles slightly without sinking, it’s ready to come out. Be careful not to overbake, as it can become rubbery!
Can I Make These Lemon Bars Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance. Just let them cool completely, then store them in the fridge in an airtight container. Dusting with powdered sugar just before serving keeps them looking fresh!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can freeze them. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.