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Classic Lemon Bars

This Easy Lemon Bars Recipe features a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, sweet lemon filling. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or just a simple Fast Lemon Dessert at home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 24 Bars
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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
Topping:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

Preheat & Prepare the Pan
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Shortbread Crust
  1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
  2. Add in flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Prepare the Lemon Filling
  1. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and flour until smooth.
  2. Add in lemon juice and zest, whisking until combined.
Pour & Bake Again
  1. Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the center is set.
Cool, Dust & Slice
  1. Let the bars cool completely (about 2 hours).
  2. 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.