The Best Lemon Bars Recipe: Easy, Classic & Perfectly Tangy Dessert
You know that feeling when you open the fridge, see a bunch of lemons, and think, Okay, what now? Well, friend, this is your sign to make Homemade Lemon Bars. And not just any lemon bars—the Best Lemon Bars Recipe you’ll ever try. These bars are sweet, tart, buttery, and ridiculously easy to whip up. If you’ve been searching for an Easy Lemon Bars Recipe that works every single time, you’re in the right place.

As a mom of three, I don’t have time for fussy desserts. I need a Fast Lemon Dessert that comes together quickly, tastes amazing, and doesn’t leave my kitchen looking like a crime scene. This Easy Lemon Bar Recipe checks all the boxes. It’s got a Classic Lemon Bars shortbread crust, a bright and zesty lemon filling, and that perfect dusting of powdered sugar on top. These are the Lemon Squares that disappear the second they hit the counter.
And if you’re making dessert, why not go all in? Whip up a batch of Homemade Cold Brew Coffee to go with these Super Easy Lemon Bars. Something about that smooth coffee and citrusy lemon combo just works.
So whether you’re baking for a party, a bake sale, or just need a reason to use up those lemons, this Lemon Bars For A Crowd Recipe is about to be your new go-to. Grab your lemons, preheat your oven, and let’s make the Best Lemon Bars ever.
What You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, but adds a punch of flavor)
Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or, if you’re like me and hate scrubbing sticky messes, line it with parchment paper. You’ll thank yourself later when you can just lift the whole thing out and cut perfect squares.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

Now, let’s make that buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until it’s smooth and fluffy. This takes about a minute, and yes, it’s an arm workout.
Next, add in the flour and salt. Mix until everything comes together in a crumbly dough. Don’t overthink it—this is not a fancy pie crust situation, just mix until it holds together when you press it between your fingers.

Take that dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your pan. Try to get it as even as possible because nobody wants a lopsided lemon bar. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the edges start to turn a light golden brown.
While that’s baking, let’s move on to the good stuff—the lemon filling.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Lemon Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and flour until smooth. Make sure there aren’t any weird clumps of flour hanging around.
Now, squeeze in that fresh lemon juice. I know it’s tempting to grab bottled lemon juice, but trust me—fresh lemons make a huge difference here. If you’re feeling extra fancy, throw in a tablespoon of lemon zest for even more flavor.
Whisk everything together until it’s fully combined. It should look smooth and a little foamy on top.
Step 4: Pour & Bake Again

Once the crust comes out of the oven, immediately pour the lemon filling over the top while the crust is still warm. This helps the filling really settle in and not separate.
Pop it back into the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle when you give the pan a little shake.
Step 5: Cool, Dust & Slice

This is the hardest part—waiting. Let the bars cool completely before cutting. I know, I know, you just want to dive in, but trust me. If you cut them too soon, the filling will be too soft and messy.
Once they’re cool, dust the top with powdered sugar. You can be as generous as you want here. Then, grab a sharp knife and cut them into squares. If you want super clean edges, wipe your knife with a damp paper towel between cuts.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Lemon Bars
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Technically, yes. But will it taste as good? Nope. Fresh lemon juice gives you that bright, natural tartness that makes Classic Lemon Bars shine. If you’re in a pinch, bottled will work, but fresh is always better.
Why did my lemon bars turn out runny?
If your Lemon Bar Recipe turned out soupy, chances are they weren’t baked long enough. The center should be set before you take them out of the oven. Also, make sure to let them cool completely before slicing—warm lemon bars are still a bit soft.
How do I get clean, even slices?
For perfect Lemon Squares, chill them in the fridge first. Then use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. If you really want that bakery-level look, dip your knife in warm water before slicing.
How do I store lemon bars?
Keep your Easy Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you stack them, place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking.
What’s the best way to serve lemon bars?
Cold, straight from the fridge! The flavors pop more when they’re chilled. If you want to get fancy, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a glass of Homemade Cold Brew Coffee.
Classic Lemon Bars Recipe Card

Classic Lemon Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add in flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour until smooth.
- Add in lemon juice and zest, whisking until combined.
- Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the center is set.
- Let the bars cool completely (about 2 hours).
- Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual bars and freeze for up to 3 months.
And there you have it—The Best Lemon Bars Recipe that’s sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of fancy without actually being hard to make. Whether you’re whipping up a Fast Lemon Dessert for a last-minute get-together or just craving something bright and citrusy, this Easy Lemon Bars Recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.
If you’ve been wondering What To Make With Lemons, this is it. These Classic Lemon Bars are perfect for bake sales, birthday parties, or just a Tuesday afternoon when the kids keep asking for snacks (again). Plus, they pair ridiculously well with a tall glass of Homemade Cold Brew Coffee. Because let’s be real, we moms need our caffeine.
So the next time life hands you lemons, forget the lemonade—make Homemade Lemon Bars. Try them plain, swap in limes for Lemon Lime Bars, or even get fancy with Limoncello Bars Recipe. There are so many Lemon Dessert Recipes out there, but I promise, this one is The Best Lemon Bars you’ll ever try.
Now, if you make a batch, let me know—are you more of a Lemon Squares Recipe person, or do you like a thicker, extra tart Lemon Ricotta Bars vibe? Either way, happy baking!