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Lemon Bars Recipe

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4.3 from 86 reviews

These classic Lemon Bars feature a rich, buttery crust topped with a bright and tangy lemon filling. Perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and tartness, they make an ideal dessert or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1/2 pound (8 ounces or 225 grams) unsalted butter, cold and diced
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 cups (260 grams) all-purpose flour

Filling

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups (495 grams) granulated sugar
  • 5 large or 6 medium-sized lemons, zest and juice
  • 1/2 cup (65 grams) all-purpose flour

Finishing

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the cold diced butter, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and 2 cups of flour. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly but holds together when pressed.
  2. Form and bake the crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until it’s lightly golden and set. Remove from oven and set aside.
  3. Make the filling: While the crust bakes, zest and juice the lemons to yield about 1/2 cup of lemon juice. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the flour and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Bake the filling: Pour the lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
  5. Cool and dust: Remove from the oven and allow the lemon bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, sift powdered sugar evenly over the top.
  6. Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh lemons for bright, natural lemon flavor.
  • Cold butter helps create a tender, flaky crust.
  • Make sure the filling is fully set before removing from oven to avoid runny bars.
  • Store lemon bars in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
  • You can dust the bars with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain the best appearance.